What is an American Kestrel?

An American kestrel is a small falcon native to the Americas. These birds have a range from the northern regions of Canada all the way down to Tierra Del Fuego and they are of low concern to conservationists because their populations are large, stable, and highly adaptable. Many birders in the Americas have a chance to see American kestrels during birding trips and because these birds have been known to settle in urban environments, even city dwellers may encounter them.

The scientific name for the American kestrel is Falco sparverius. These birds are also known by the common name “sparrow hawk,” although this is a bit of a misnomer because the birds do not hunt sparrows and are not related to other birds referred to with this common name. Genetic research has suggested that the American kestrel is not even technically a kestrel, and in fact has genetically diverged from true kestrels.

The American kestrel is one of the smallest falcon species, about the size of a robin. The males have very colorful plumage that includes reddish and orange tones, bluish-gray markings, creamy underbellies, and distinctive black barring on the wings and tails. Females tend to have somewhat duller coloration.

American kestrels eat insects and small animals. They are solitary birds, preferring to live alone in their territory and sometimes becoming extremely defensive. Kestrels call with a “kee kee kee” noise that is usually repeated several times, and they hunt from above. The birds can perch and wait for prey to pass by or hover in thermal currents to keep an eye out for movements on the ground.

During mating season, American kestrels will pair up and participate cooperatively in incubating eggs and raising young. The birds will nest in cavities and openings ranging from natural holes in trees to the eaves of houses and they are quite adaptable when it comes to living in hostile environments. American kestrel nests have been spotted in a variety of unlikely locations, including nests abandoned by other bird species.

Apprentice falconers often work with American kestrels because they are plentiful and the law limits the types of birds that people learning falconry can work with. Managing these birds can be somewhat challenging in comparison with other species because of their small size and sensitivity, but they tame quickly and can provide falconers with valuable training in learning how to handle and train a hunting bird. Prey species for falconers working with American kestrels include small birds and amphibians.

The American Kestrel, scientifically known as Falco sparverius, is the smallest falcon in North America. It's a bird of prey that can be found across the continent, from Alaska and Canada down through the United States to Central and South America. These adaptable raptors thrive in a variety of habitats, including open fields, urban areas, and deserts.

An American Kestrel is easily identifiable by its striking plumage. Males have slate-blue wings and a rusty back and tail, while females feature a rufous color with black barring. Both sexes have a distinctive facial pattern with two black slashes on their face, known as a 'moustache' and 'sideburns.' They are often seen perched on wires or hovering in the air while hunting.

American Kestrels are carnivorous birds that primarily feed on insects, small mammals, and other small birds. Their diet includes grasshoppers, beetles, mice, and sparrows. They are skilled hunters, using their keen eyesight to spot prey from high perches or while hovering in the air before diving to capture their meal.

American Kestrels are cavity nesters, often using old woodpecker holes or nest boxes. After courtship, the female lays 3-7 eggs, which both parents incubate for about a month. Once hatched, the chicks are fed by both parents and fledge in about 30 days. The young kestrels then learn to hunt and become independent after another few weeks.

As of my knowledge cutoff in 2023, American Kestrels are not considered endangered. However, their populations have been experiencing declines in some areas due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition for nesting sites. Conservation efforts, such as providing nest boxes and protecting habitats, are important for their continued survival.

American Kestrels play a crucial role as both predator and prey in their ecosystems. As predators, they help control populations of insects and small animals, maintaining a balanced food web. Their presence also indicates a healthy environment, as they are sensitive to habitat changes and pesticide levels, making them valuable indicators of ecological health.