Explore the day-by-day activities and developments in the lives of American Kestrels (North America’s smallest falcon), nesting in a backyard nest box in Benicia, California; Click on a day’s post to view photos and videos:
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May 19, 2026: Gender Reveal
The chicks’ feathering has come in enough that we now know their sex. American Kestrels are…
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May 18, 2026: All About Preening
The main activity seems to now be keeping busy with constant preening! The chicks did not…
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May 17, 2026: Countdown To Peek-Out
The Kestrel chicks are looking upwards toward the nest box opening more, and achieving new heights…
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May 16, 2026: Growing Fast
The Kestrel chicks are growing fast! It will soon be possible to tell who is male…
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May 15, 2026: Life Continues
By morning, there was no sign of the deceased Kestrel chick. Presumably it was consumed. The…
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May 14, 2026: Sad Day
Sadly, the smallest Kestrel chick died this afternoon. It was surprising how quickly it succumbed, and…
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May 13, 2026: Eating (Or Trying To!) & Preening
Today the Kestrel chicks continued to compete over the prey deliveries that their parents are regularly…
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May 12, 2026: Keepin’ Warm
Today was cold and overcast, and the chicks spent much more time huddled together for warmth.
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May 11, 2026: Unaided (And Not Always Equitable!) Feeding
Both Kestrel parents are now feeding the chicks using the “toss & fly” method, throwing prey…
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May 9 & 10, 2026: Looking More Like Falcons
The chicks have continued to do well through the weekend, and are looking more like falcons…
Benicia Kestrels 