Whenever I encounter an American kestral in the wild, I am taken by the beauty of this small falcon. It is easy to forget that this pretty creature—also known as a sparrow hawk—is an acomplished predator. Like all falcons, it is a fast and efficient hunter. It is also a favorite among falconers because of its size and manageability; it is often a falconer's first bird.

I am reminded of a young boy with a gift for raising, training and healing birds who profoundly flew his kestral for me many years ago. Such a unique combination of beauty and predatory skill in the kestral naturally lends itself to painting.