General Discussion : How close can kestrel boxes be to Bald Eagle and Red-tailed Hawk nests?

I am hoping someone can give me some guidance on how close I can safely place Kestrel nest boxes to Bald Eagle or Red-tailed Hawk nests. Would either of these other raptors prey upon Kestrels when they found them regularly using a box in a field near their nest? Also would there be any significant competition for food between Kestrels and Red-tailed Hawks if they were nesting near to one another. I am writing from Bozeman, Montana where I am involved in a Kestrel Nest Box Program with the Sacajawea Audubon Society. Thanks for any information and advice you can give!
Paulette Epple, Secretary
Sacajawea Audubon Society.

Comments:

Delorahilleary's picture

Hello!

I'm not sure of the exact optimal distance, but I would recommend placing kestrel nest boxes about a half-mile away from established Bald Eagle or Red-tailed hawk nests.

While red-tailed hawks and bald eagles are not necessarily a threat to kestrels, kestrels ARE known to antagonize and harass larger birds of prey. (Kestrels are more agile and quicker than eagles are hawks, so they are not in danger as they harass them)  Thus, harassment by a kestrel could pose a problem to other nesting birds of prey.

I hope that helps you out somewhat!

sacajaweaaudubon's picture

Thanks very much for the insight Delora!  That will be important in siting some of our boxes near where other raptors are nesting.

Paulette Epple

Sacajawea Audubon Society

Posted in General Discussion by sacajaweaaudubon 9 years 1 month ago.

 

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