A mighty kestrel’s lunch

While out riding along the Mckenzie River today, with the flowers blooming, the sun shining, and the wind blowing, a diving small raptor caught my attention. – truly out of side of eye as I was coasting down a hill.

I wasn’t sure what it was at first – it dove, and then waveringly flew up to a nearby post. It had to be a kestrel or merlin given the size. I was far from it’s post and the telephoto lens extended all the way …

What a surprise … a mighty kestrel had caught a mouse, vole, mole or other tiny rodent. Kestrels are fabulous to watch and so surprisingly fast and strong for such a little thing.

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I watched for a few minutes, turned my head, and when looked back- gone! Both bird and prey; the post top was empty.

The Ride

Went out Coburg Rd over the Mckenzie and then Mckenzie View Dr and Hill Dr to Marcola Road and around the Mohawk General store and back.

Just a conditioning ride. No panniers nor front handlebar bags; just frame packs. Wind was strong coming back so influenced my speed. My front sprocket was also stuck (why?) in small gear for entire ride – adjustments required.