Thanks for posting John. You captured a beautiful bird and great action. I would have like to have the head turned more towards you though. I can see that the light is coming from you right. Though I am not apposed to sidelight and with a head turn here, I think the head will still have been in the light, you generally want to have your shadow facing the bird.
Expose looks good. I would like a more room to the right and less on top. Looking forward to more.
John
Overall the image is pleasant...warm colors, beautiful bird, details and smooth BG. A head turn would have been nice but it's a very presentable image as is.
Thank you all for the helpful comments. You're of course all correct with the light angle. Don't remember why I didn't reposition myself. Probably was worried that it would take off.
Very nice, John. I like the action you've captured. Kestrals are notoriously difficult to approach, so you did well to get off a shot before he was gone. The others have given you great advice.