American Kestrels are North America’s smallest falcon - they’re active, agile predators that can snatch a sparrow right out of the air! They also feed on large insects and small rodents. American Kestrels have black “malar” stripes under their eyes to protect them from the glare of the sun - just like football players. This little kestrel is blind in his left eye due to impact trauma sustained in an accident when young. He’s very interested in his surroundings and, despite his disability, he’s learning to fly in the Mountsberg Raptor Centre shows and is doing quite well. The Mountsberg Raptor Centre team is very proud of this little fellow, and can’t wait to have an official name for him.
How to Enter
Entries are open to people of all ages and are not restricted in any way. You may submit multiple entries. Please submit your chosen name along with a short description (200 words or less) of why you’ve suggested it. Deadline is Thursday, June 3rd at midnight, EST. Winners will be announced on Friday, June 4th, and contacted to arrange their tours.
1. Facebook – Click on the ‘discussion’ tab of the Mountsberg Raptor Centre Facebook fan page, and add your suggestion to the ‘Name the Kestrel’ discussion thread. You can also post your suggestion directly to the Wall.
2. Email – Send an email to raptorcentre@gmail.com with your suggested name and a description of why you’ve chosen it.
3. In Person – Are you at the park? Drop by the Raptor Centre and give your suggestion in person. Staff will take your information, telephone number and / or an email address where they can reach you if your suggestion is chosen.
4. Ballot – Guests attending the Conservation Halton Awards Night on June 3rd will be able to submit an entry by ballot that evening!
Prizes
Aside from choosing the winning name, the successful entrant will have the opportunity for a unique behind the scenes tour of the Mountsberg Raptor Centre, and a photo of themselves holding the newly-named American Kestrel on their gloved hand. Three runners-up will also be chosen for a Raptor Centre tour and photos with the birds.
About the Mountsberg Raptor Centre
Tucked within Mountsberg Conservation Area, the Mountsberg Raptor Centre is currently home to 14 different species of native birds of prey. Many of the Raptor Centre's resident birds of prey have permanent injuries that have left them incapable of surviving on their own in the wild. In many cases, these injuries were caused by human activity. With the help of these feathered ambassadors, the Mountsberg Raptor Centre teaches the community about the native birds of prey that share our environment and how to reduce the negative impact we can have on them.
Mountsberg Conservation Area is located on Milburough Line, 5 km west of Campbellville, ON, between Hwy 6 south and the Guelph Line. For more information, visit the Mountsberg Raptor Centre webpage.
