Kestrels and Wildflowers, September 25, 2013

This post is for ABC Wednesday, Wild Bird Wednesday, and Wildflower Wednesday

Wild Bird Wednesday and ABC Wednesday

K is for Kestrel

American Kestrel

Birds of prey may be keep in captivity only if they are unable to survive on their own in the wild. This one, being cared for by Mississippi Wildlife Rehabilitation, has an injured foot.

September 6, 2013

Though sometimes called a Sparrow Hawk, the American Kestrel, Falco sparverius, is a Falcon, not a Hawk. It is the smallest falcon and the only Kestrel in the Americas. Their diet consists mostly of small mammals, lizards, and insects. Kestrels who breed in colder climates are migratory; those who breed in more moderate climates keep the same territory all year.

Wildflower Wednesday:

Wildflowers, Lee county, Mississippi, USA

When I saw these tall yellow wildflowers by the side of the road,
I thought they were probably Goldenrod.

Looking at stem and leaf characteristics helps with identification

I'm glad I stopped the car and walked over for a closer look.

Sunflower Tickseed, Bidens aristosa

Sunflower Tickseed grows wild in the eastern half of North America from the
Gulf of Mexico all the way north into Canada.

Have a Wonderful Wednesday!

For more 'K' photos, vist ABC Wednesday: Click Here!

For more wild bird photos, visit Stewart for Wild Bird Wednesday: Click Here!

For more Wildflower Wednesday photos, visit Gail at Clay and Limestone: Click Here!