These little falcons aren’t usually too inclined to sit still for pictures and this female was no exception. I saw her perched and no sooner did I get my camera up to my eye than she bolted off. Thankfully I was able to grab a couple of parting shots including this one as she took off sideways.
These birds are the smallest falcon in North America averaging about 8 inches long. Don’t let their size fool you though. They are as much of an effective predator and just as vicious as any raptor. Taken in Adams County, Colorado.
![A female American Kestrel demonstrates sideways flight. (© Tony’s Takes)](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-oHC0r-NAWUM/WKRa2JWTnuI/AAAAAAAAdtA/1lrDXr3Z2Ag9w6KSQfuCst6BBXUA9k09gCJoC/s710/32308508710_6ff8c2333f_o.jpg)