American Kestrel
NameAmerican Kestrel
Common NameAmerican Kestrel
Scientific NameFalco sparverius
FamilyFalconidae
Wingspan (cm)56.5
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)122.5
Plumage DetailsMales feature striking blue-gray wings, a rufous back, and a rufous tail with a black subterminal band. Females have rufous wings and back with dark barring. Both sexes display two prominent black vertical stripes on a white face and a spotted underside.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched 'klee-klee-klee' or 'killy-killy-killy' call, often given when agitated or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsopen country, grassland, agricultural fields, deserts, urban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout the Americas, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America to Tierra del Fuego.
Identifying Featuressmall size, rufous back and tail, distinctive facial stripes, pointed wings, hovering flight pattern
Description
The American Kestrel is North America's smallest falcon, known for its colorful plumage and distinctive hunting style. It often hovers in place over open fields before diving to catch prey, as seen in the image where it carries an insect.
