Venkatesh Kittur, The Nankeen Kestrel in Stillness and Motion (ANIMAL & NATURE 2025)

This four-image portfolio captures the quiet elegance and beauty of the Nankeen Kestrel (Falco cenchroides) — one of Australia's most iconic birds of prey. A close-up portrait reveals the kestrel’s keen gaze and subtle facial markings, embodying its watchful nature. A preening moment showcases the intricate layering of its russet and cream plumage, a quiet ritual of care and survival. As it extends its neck, alert and poised, the kestrel scans the open land for prey, displaying the delicate balance of grace and intent. Finally, a dynamic in-flight shot freezes the kestrel mid-hover, wings outstretched with that gaze — a master of air and instinct. Together, these images portray the Nankeen Kestrel not only as a predator, but as a symbol of the wild beauty found in the subtle rhythms of nature.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.