American kestrel

The American kestrel (Falco sparverius), sometimes colloquially known as the sparrow hawk, is a small falcon, and the only kestrel found in the Americas. It is the most common falcon in North America, and is found in a wide variety of habitats. At 19–21 cm (7–8 in) long, it is also the smallest falcon in North America. It exhibits sexual dimorphism in size and plumage, although both sexes have a rufous back with noticeable barring. Juveniles are similar in plumage to adults.

The American kestrel hunts by hovering in the air with rapid wing beats or perching and scanning the ground for prey. Its diet typically consists of grasshoppers, lizards, mice, and small birds (e.g. sparrows). It nests in cavities in trees, cliffs, buildings, and other structures. The female lays three to seven eggs, which both sexes help to incubate. It is a common bird to be used in falconry, especially by beginners. Though not as aggressive a hunter as many other larger falcons, proper training and weight control by the falconer allows many kestrels to become effective hunters of birds in the size range of sparrows and starlings, with occasional success against birds up to approximately twice their own weight.

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Latest News for: american kestrel

Thrasher songs, twittering goldfinches hint of spring

Las Cruces Sun News 25 Feb 2025
In our yard just a few have remained, probably a consequence of both a sharp-shinned hawk and a kestrel that seemed quite interested in them.

University of Iowa seeking public feedback on Macbride nature area use, lease

The Gazette Cedar Rapids 25 Feb 2025
(The Gazette). The Gazette offers audio versions of articles using Instaread ... In a July 10, 2020, photo, Iowa Raptor Project Director Ryan Anthony holds an American Kestrel at the project’s site at the Macbride Nature Recreation Area near Solon ... .

Blackbrook Audubon plans two upcoming birding events

Cascade Business News 19 Feb 2025
Blackbrook Audubon will be leading two outdoor walks this weekend. First, a trip to Amish farm country will take place Feb ... This will be handy to spot northern harriers and American kestrels flying over the hills, the release stated ... ....

Bird Festival brings families to California Botanic Garden in Claremont

Daily Bulletin 17 Feb 2025
It was time to get outside for some educational fun at the Family Bird Festival on Sunday, Feb. 16, in Claremont ... An American kestrel falcon is held for people to see during the Family Bird Festival on Sunday, Feb ... Show Caption. 1 of 9 ... Related Articles ... .

Yolo Bird Alliance invites the community for a lecture and fieldtrip

The Daily Democrat 15 Feb 2025
Breanna Martinico and Mary Badger, who will talk about the decline of American Kestrels across much of North America ... To increase our understanding of local American Kestrel populations, Dr.

Morkel Wins Art Competition

Oelwein Daily Register 15 Feb 2025
In addition to First Place in the Habitat Stamp competition, Morkel received First Runner-up for an American kestrel image and Third Runner-up in the Pheasants Forever Print of Year competition ... .

Geauga Park District joins in on Great Backyard Bird Count

Cascade Business News 15 Feb 2025
Birds like the red-tailed hawk, red-shouldered hawk, peregrine falcons, American kestrels and other members of the falcon and hawk family including owls, who don’t directly eat from the feeders also ...
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