I recently have really enjoyed finding more and more American Kestrels when I go out on a photo hunt. I think my eyes are getting more adept at spotting these small raptors and I’m pretty happy about that. A recent outing to Rocky Mountain Arsenal did not disappoint. Even though it was snowing and cold, this kestrel caught dinner and rested on a branch to enjoy it. I had fun watching it go about its normal life. Still always amazed by wildlife and especially birds. You might ask how to spot these wonderful little birds. Well, my first advice is to drive as slow as you can! It takes time to spot them and if fly by too quickly, you’ll miss out. Second, I look for a branch that looks odd. It might have an unusual spot in it which isn’t part of the branch at all. Also, the male kestrel in particular will have some beautiful blue hue on him, so keep an eye out for that. You might also keep an eye out for a moving part of the tree. I think that’s a dead giveaway for a bird! Lastly, it is much easier to spot these birds in winter when there are no leaves on the trees! Did you know the American Kestrel is the smallest raptor found in North America? 
