Kestrel and Acorn Woodpecker

[Carma Sue Henry]

Just caught this interaction today.  Not much size between them so it doesn't seem like the Kestrel would be much of a threat at this time of year after the young are full size.  The Acorns just don't want them around.  Unfortunately, my finger decided (totally on it's own) to hit the stop icon before the brush off.  A few weeks ago the parent(s?) Kestrel brought in 3 or 4 youngsters to teach them some hunting skills.  Although we didn't witness any successful catches, it was fun to watch all attempts.  We have tons of voles, mice and shrews, so the yard & fields are full of treacherous holes.  I hope a couple of the young Ks decide to make this their home territory.

Carma Henry

Logsdon Ridge