[EBB Sightings] White Tailed Kites

Greetings, I am a new member.  I live in Dublin and
enjoy wildlife photography as a hobby.  Most of my
work has focused on the large wading birds, birds of
prey, and shorebirds (http://www.pbase.com/zeiler/ )
although I will take some photos of the smaller birds
when opportunities present themselves.

Lately I have been very interested in white-tailed
kites.  I've been spending more and more time
observing them near the entrance of Coyote Hills and
in the field near the north marsh - there must be at
least 4 or 5 resident pairs.  My problem is that they
never come within 100 yards of me.  My photos are not
very satisfying to me. I want to get a lot closer -
within 20-25 yards.  Naturally I never wish to disturb
my subjects; but most birds of prey seem tolerant of
motionless humans within 20-25 yards as long as it's
on their terms - while they're eating, while they're
commuting between the roost and the feeding area, etc.

So, I am just looking for some tips on how to improve
my proximity to them without disturbing them.  I know
they are about to begin nesting season, so perhaps
I'll see some nesting activity and will be able to
approach cautiously?  Or are they unlikely to
habituate to my presence?  I really don't want to
bother them.

Thanks for any tips!

Brian

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