© 2003 Darryl Wheye .....Science Art-Birds
Title: Lesser Kestrel and the Bombing of Baghdad (Falco naumanni)
Artist: Darryl Wheye (for further information, click on the artist's name)
Image size: 24" x 30"
Media: watercolor and guache
Date: 2003
Location: artist's collection

Lesser Kestrels breed in the Mediterranean region east to China. Populations of these falcons have been in decline for some time, primarily in response to pesticide use. Pairs of these gregarious birds often breed in close proximity to people, laying their eggs on the ledge of tall buildings, old walls, or cliffs.

In March of 2003, bombing began in Baghdad, coinciding with the beginning of breeding season for Lesser Kestrels. The adult Lesser Kestrel shown here may survive, but one of its nestlings was lost, and the other two are at risk as subsequent blasts may further damage the structure until, as in Jericho, the walls tumble down.