American Kestrel
Image: charley (cc-by-nc)
NameAmerican Kestrel
Common NameAmerican Kestrel
Scientific NameFalco sparverius
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)56.5
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)122.5
Plumage DetailsMales have blue-gray wings, a rufous back with black barring, and spotted white underparts. Females, like the one pictured, have rufous wings with dark barring, a rufous back with more extensive black barring, and streaked underparts. Both sexes have two prominent black vertical stripes on a white face, a rufous crown, and a yellow cere and feet.
Vocalization / CallA rapid, high-pitched 'klee-klee-klee' or 'killy-killy-killy' call, often given when agitated or in flight.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, grassland, desert, agricultural fields, urban areas, forest edge
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North and South America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States and Mexico, and wintering as far south as the southern tip of South America.
Identifying Featuressmall size for a raptor, colorful plumage (rufous, blue-gray in males), distinctive black facial stripes, pointed wings, hovering flight pattern, perches on wires and tall structures
Description
The American Kestrel is North America's smallest and most colorful falcon. It is often seen perched on power lines or hovering over open fields, scanning for prey. This agile raptor is known for its distinctive facial markings and rapid wingbeats.
