American Kestrel

Caracaras, Falcons 👁 268 views Updated 2026-11-01

American Kestrel (<em>Falco sparverius</em>) is a species of Caracaras, Falcons (<em>Falconidae</em>) in the order Falcons and Allies.

Overview

American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is a species of Caracaras, Falcons (Falconidae) in the order Falcons and Allies. North America's smallest falcon, colorful with rufous back and blue-gray wings; hovers and perches on wires hunting insects and small rodents; nests in cavities.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Falco; binomial: Falco sparverius; authority: Linnaeus, 1758. Typical size: 22-27cm. Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Nearctic, Middle America and South America.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.

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