2025 was a lot different than 2024 for nesting kestrels. Last year we had 12 of 14 boxes placed. None were occupied by kestrels. Most were used by starlings. This year we had 14 boxes in place. Five of the 14 were claimed by kestrels. One box was abandoned for uncertain reasons. 4 boxes produced a total of 15 fledg‐ lings. Nine boxes produced a lot of starlings. Two of the successful boxes were closely monitored and photo‐ graphed due to accessibility. After about 7-10 days the young birds were seemingly off on their own, no long‐ er hanging around their nest box area. This type of behavior was repeated at 2 other natural nesting sites that were recognized.
We would like to locate a few of our ‘successful’ starling boxes to sites better suited for kestrels in 2026. These sites would have a natural source of food nearby (mice, voles, grasshoppers) – short to medium fields, a few perches near, away from heavy traffic, a sturdy wooden post to which the box and post could be attached, easy access to monitor and maintain. Boxes should be in place by April 1st. If you have a spot that we might consider, contact Richard Mousel, 4rmousel@gmail.com or Beth Hill, grizhill@gmail.com.
See our feathered friends grow up , page 2. Left—nestlings, center—mom brings in breakfast (photo— Renee McKey), right—ready to fledge. UMBA has a back-up camera on an extendable pole to peak into the nest boxes. Visits with the camera are limited to minimize stress to the birds.