American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

The smallest falcon, the American Kestrel often hovers in midair, looking for mice, sparrows, or large insects. It nests in holes in trees, on cliffs, or on buildings. Families stay together for months after babies learn to fly.

Look For : Two thin, black sideburns on white face. The male has reddish back, blue-gray wings and a black band at end of tail. The female has reddish wings and back.

Length : 9-12".

Habitat : Fields, forest clearings, farms, deserts, towns.

Range : Alaska and Canada (mainly only in summer) and south throughout U.S.