The American Kestrel is North America's smallest and most colorful falcon, a widespread and agile predator of insects and small vertebrates found in open habitats.
Where to spot
Open country, grasslands, agricultural areas, urban parks, and woodland edges across North, Central, and South America.
How to spot
Look for its small size, rufous back, blue-grey wings (male), and distinctive double black 'mustache' stripes on its face. Often seen perched on power lines or hovering over fields.
When to spot
Active during the day, particularly during morning and late afternoon. Observable year-round, though northern populations migrate south for winter.
Where to spot
Open country, grasslands, agricultural areas, urban parks, and woodland edges across North, Central, and South America.
How to spot
Look for its small size, rufous back, blue-grey wings (male), and distinctive double black 'mustache' stripes on its face. Often seen perched on power lines or hovering over fields.
When to spot
Active during the day, particularly during morning and late afternoon. Observable year-round, though northern populations migrate south for winter.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Despite its small size, it's a formidable hunter, known for its distinctive head bobbing when perched and its ability to hover motionless in the air while hunting.
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