AMERICAN KESTREL $5.00
WHY THEY COME INTO OUR CARE
- Like all the birds under the care of Scales and Tales, the American Kestrels have all been injured in one way or another and these injuries prevent their release back into the wild.
- Frequently, the Kestrels in our care have been hit by cars and have either sustained permanent wing damage, lost all or some of their sight, or have even sustained brain damage.
- Kestrels can also be unfortunate victims of pesticide use on agricultural fields.
- Occasionally, Kestrels are injured by other birds such as crows or larger birds of prey.
WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM THIS?
- Kestrels, like many other animals, are often struck by vehicles. These tragic accidents are compounded by the fact that many people continue to litter our roadsides. Not only is this unsightly, but this litter can attract rodents, insects, and other small animals to the roadside in search of food. These animals, in turn, attract larger predators to the roadside, such as kestrels, hawks, and owls,. Here is where tragedy can occur. Remember, trash free is the way to be.
- Whenever we use pesticides or other chemicals to control animals such as rodents and insects, or other animals considered to be a "nuisance" to some landowners, we risk affecting other animals, as well. Poisons in our environment can have far reaching affects. We remind people to keep not only their body free of drugs and poisons, but show the same respect for the environment. Take the Drug-Free Trail.
Posted March 8, 2000