What is the best way to catch a starling with your American Kestrel?

Catching a starling with an American Kestrel is most effectively accomplished from close range while they are bathing. This scenario provides a unique advantage because starlings are often distracted and vulnerable during bathing, making them less alert to the presence of a predator like the kestrel. At this time, the starling is focused on cleaning itself and not on potential threats in the environment.

Additionally, the close range allows the kestrel to utilize its agility and speed effectively, preying on an unsuspecting target. American Kestrels are known for their high-speed dives and precise attacks, which are especially beneficial when the target is in a defenseless position.

Other methods such as waiting from a high perch or during a ringing flight may not leverage the element of surprise or the bird's natural behavior as successfully as the scenario of catching from close range while bathing. These alternative methods may be less likely to yield a successful catch as they could give the starling time to react or escape before the kestrel can close the distance.