American Kestrel

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The American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is the smallest falcon in the United States.

It is fairly widespread, living in open areas across the United States. The picture shows traditional kestrel behavior. They perch on telephone wires, fences or other locations where they can more easily scout prey. Their diet consists of insects and small mammals.

Kestrels are also known for their striking looks. The picture shows a female with blue feathers on the forehead and brown marked wings. Males have blue marked wings similar in color to the forehead feathers.

© 2007 Patricia A. Michaels