Right Place, Wrong Subject

[Loupey]

A few days ago I received a hot tip about an area only a few miles north from me which is reported to have some fabulous butterflies and moths. As proof, I was sent images on my phone of three beautiful specimens - a Luna Moth, a Royal Walnut Moth, and a Pandorus Sphinx. I was chomping at the bit but couldn't make it out until this afternoon.

It was windy (30+ mph gusts) so no moths But I did find a male/female pair of kestrels. I hadn't seen any in almost 3 months so it was a treat finding them. I chased them then waited for them for almost 2 hours to return. My apologies as the images of them with food are severe crops and not very good at all. The female with grasshopper and male with mouse. Even with a 600mm, they would not let me get as close as I would have liked. See, Ben, I can't get 'em all

Then a RT hawk swoops in low (to be chased away by the kestrels) to reveal the side that is almost always hidden.

[mn shutterbug]

The first (though a tad soft) and the last one are pretty darned good shots. I really enjoy sharp photos of birds in flight. Sometimes, even if the shots aren't as good as hoped for, it's still a nice feeling just to know you got the capture, which in itself can be a real challenge. Thanks for sharing all of them. In my book, they're all good shots.

[quetzal]

I think overall they are good images as well and agree with Minnesota scroller, at least you were able to capture them. I'd love to get a shot of a kestrel.

[WsW-WYATT-EARP]

I agree with the others here - yes they might not be the normal "Loupey" shots - but its nice to see that you are "human" The last one is very cool, something I don't get a chance to practice much, I don't seem to have the patience for that right now. I also like the shots with their food, them are really cool. You still get some nice shots, even if it isn't the subject you are hoping for. Always tomorrow :thumbsup:

[Coastal Flyer]

Loupey,

They are all very nice shots. You are so lucky to have these magnificent birds to photograph. I get hummingbirds and sparrows. Thanks for sharing.

CF

[mn shutterbug]

Loupey,

I get hummingbirds and sparrows.

CF

You're lucky. I get blackbirds in my backyard.

[scott-devon]

Neat shots, I'm fond of Kestrels. I'd love to get a chance at photographing them.

[Loupey]

Thanks, eveyone, for stopping by and looking.

You know, I've lived in generally the same area for 34 years and until I came to this forum I didn't even know we had kestrels. Shot my first one last year and still trying to figure out their habits and tendencies.

I will try to make this pair more accustomed to me - hopefully I can get some decent shots.

Thanks again.