American Kestrel
Image: charley (cc-by-nc)
NameAmerican Kestrel
Common NameAmerican Kestrel
Scientific NameFalco sparverius
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)56
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)122.5
Plumage DetailsMales have blue-gray wings, a rufous back, and a rufous tail with a black subterminal band. Females, like the bird pictured, have rufous wings and back with dark barring, and a rufous tail also with a black subterminal band. Both sexes feature a creamy white underside with brown streaking, a blue-gray crown with rufous patches, and two prominent vertical black stripes on a white face.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid series of high-pitched 'killy-killy-killy' calls, often given when agitated or in flight, and a softer 'whine' or 'chitter'.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, open woodland, desert, agricultural fields, urban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout the Americas, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States and Mexico, Central America, and into South America as far as Tierra del Fuego. Northern populations are migratory, while southern populations are resident.
Identifying Featuressmall size for a raptor, colorful plumage (rufous and blue-gray/barred), two prominent black facial stripes, pointed wings, characteristic hovering flight, rufous tail with black subterminal band
Description
The American Kestrel is North America's smallest and most colorful falcon, often seen perched on power lines or hovering over open fields. It is characterized by its slender body, pointed wings, and distinctive facial markings, making it a striking raptor.
