Kestrel used to be a TCA owned ranger mount, until she retired from duty at the age of 18 after a lifetime of service to the TCA. Back then she was known as a compulsive troublemaker. She got into everything she shouldn't, and tried to get out of anything she considered work. Despite her... difficult... disposition for serious work, Kestrel had a long, successful career - and is a cherished member of the TCA Retirees.

When she retired through the TCA's retirement and rehoming project, Horace Costelli - a retired TRC Geological Engineer, was first in line to apply for her. Even though he never worked alongside her, the recent loss of his wife left him lonely and without a purpose. Kestrel has stepped happily into his life, and loves Horace deeply... But the new retired lifestyle doesn't hurt either.