Good Things Come in Small Packages

The two of the smallest raptors in North America, the Kestrel and the Screech Owl occupy the same rung on the food chain. Consumate omnivores, they will take prey such as mice, insects, songbirds as well as the nestlings of pigeons, starlings and squirrels. They are in turn also preyed upon by each of the next layers in their respective orders. This is one of the reasons why both the Kestrel and the ESO can turn their heads almost 360 degrees around and have excellent camoflage. Both ferocious and hunted, these diminutive creatures live on a precarious ledge, yet despite this, they can prosper in an urban setting. Here are some shots of a Kestrel on top of St. Mark's Church and an ESO in the North Woods.
Look there!

Way up there...

A male Kestrel is sunning himself!




Kestrels don't hack up pellets, do they?

And there,

Whoooo's that?