On my drive to work on the “Old Island Highway” I’ve seen an American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) on a couple occasions in November and now December. With my experience seeing an American Kestrel last year on several occasions throughout the winter of 2009/2010 I wonder if this might be the same bird overwintering on Vancouver Island again this year.
Regardless, the bright rusty and grey-blue colours of this small falcon make it a treat to see. So far I’ve only seen the single kestrel just north of Courtenay near an old wooden barn between Parker Road and Grieve Road (see Google Map below) and a little further up the road past the golf course. Last year there was a second (?) kestrel near a farm north of the intersection of Highway 19A and Smith Road. Haven’t seen one there yet this year.
Courtenay, BC
Hi Dave,
I’m currently working on an American Kestrel pilot study, building and installing nest boxes to monitor, with hopes of recording some nesting pairs in the Valley. Currently, I’m searching out locations for these boxes – and I think the area you pin-pointed on this map should definitely have one. Confirmed sightings are always better to go with than what I may think to be suitable habitat. 🙂
I would be interested to hear of any more sightings you may have on your commute!
Thanks,
Jenn