A Predator in Their Midst

Male American Kestrel

At first glance, this male American Kestrel seems harmless - even cute. But our resident hummingbirds were not fooled.

This guy sat quietly in a tree while rain showers fell around him. I think he was looking for shelter on a rainy afternoon. Look at that innocent face.

The truth is that the American Kestrel is a lean, mean killing machine! You need look no further than the photograph below, where an American Kestrel found a tasty chick to eat on West End Pond.

American Kestrel Eating Chick West End Pond IBA

According to Birds of the World, the American Kestrel feeds on “terrestrial arthropods and small vertebrates.” Small iguanas, birds, lizards, and bugs are tasty entres for this species.

American Kestrel Being Attacked by a Male Antillean Crested Hummingbird

So it’s no surprise that the hummingbirds in the yard took particular umbrage with a predator in their territory.

The male Antillean Crested Hummingbird protected his female and her two eggs just 50 feet away by repeatedly attacking. Three Green-throated Carib Hummingbirds joined in the battle during the confrontation. I am unsure if they were defending their nests or just being supportive of the Crested.

Antillean Crested Hummingbird Attacks American Kestrel to Protect Nest

While male hummingbirds do not participate in nest building, incubating, or raising chicks, they provide protection services.

Male Antillean Crested Hummingbird Keeping a Watchful Eye on Intruding American Kestrel

When he wasn’t divebombing the Kestrel, he was keeping an eye on him from the branch above. It’s as if he was saying, “Not on my watch, big guy!”

American Kestrel With Something to Say

The encounter continued for 20 minutes until the American Kestrel shrieked and flew off. Teamwork saved the day in this case, and the crisis was averted.

The American Kestrel will think twice about perching in that tree in the future!