American Kestrel
The American Kestrel is the smallest and most common falcon in North America. Despite its diminutive size, it is a fierce and effective predator. It is known for its unique hunting style, which involves hovering in the air on rapidly beating wings, a technique called "kiting." This allows it to spot prey from a distance before diving down to capture it. Its diet consists of insects, small rodents, and birds.
The American Kestrel has a beautiful and distinctive plumage, with a reddish-brown back and blue-gray wings. It is a vital part of its ecosystem, helping to control insect and rodent populations.
American Kestrel
Classification
Aves > Falconiformes > Falconidae > Falco > F. sparverius
Native To
Conservation Status
Average Height
8 - 10 inches
(20 - 25 cm)
Average Weight
3 - 5 oz
(85 - 142 g)
Average Life Span
10 - 15 years
Gestation Period
29 - 31 days
Did You Know?
The American Kestrel is the smallest falcon in North America.
They are often seen perched on telephone wires or poles, scanning for prey.
Their diet primarily consists of insects and small rodents.
American Kestrels can hover in place while hunting, a technique called "kestrel hawking."
Males and females have distinct plumage, with males having blue-gray wings.
They are cavity nesters and will use old woodpecker holes or nest boxes.
Despite their small size, they are fierce hunters.
Their call is a rapid series of "killy, killy, killy" notes.
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