Kestrel Shelf Perch

[SkyRider]

Hey guys, just threw this perch together tonight in preparation for a kestrel. I was hoping I could get some constructive feedback or tips on what I should change.




The perch is 6" across, with a 3" gap between it and the surrounding area. It stands roughly 8" high. It has a Tupperware container that slides beneath to catch any droppings. I've attached the coco mat on top with velcro so I can peel it off, spray it down and put it back.

I plan on using a bow perch as well, which I will post pictures of later for the same purpose.

So... Thoughts, comments, questions?

[Falcon Boy]

Where does the birds tail go? If straight down through the gap, what keeps the bird from dropping down the gap?

[SkyRider]

I've got the same concern. This was a design I spotted on another site. The falconer who designed it said he liked it. I'm going to try it out and see what happens. If it ends up being a problem, I can unscrew that bottom perch and raise it up.

[Ally]

I would maybe raise the perch up, and attach hardware cloth or a plastic mesh underneath the hole. Will still allow mutes to fall but just in case the bird bates he doesn't fall through the hole and get stuck. Otherwise I like it