Spotted a tiny bird of prey but can’t tell if it is an American Kestrel or a Sharp-shinned hawk? We’ve got you covered. Learn the key differences and become a confident raptor identifier, no head-scratching required! American Kestrel vs. Sharp-shinned Hawk: Plumage characteristics American KestrelHabitatBreedingFeeding MigrationCalls & SoundsFemale KestrelKestrel vs MerlinKestrel vs Sharp-shinned HawkKestrels: Southeast […]
The American Kestrel holds the distinction of being the smallest, most numerous, and widely distributed North American falcon. This tiny bird of prey encompasses two subspecies in North America and ranges from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego in the southern tip of South America. Here, I delve into the American Kestrel’s appearance, habitat use, diet,
Introducing the distinct female American Kestrel, adorned in rufous-brown plumage, setting her apart from the vibrant male counterpart. Whether you’ve observed her perched on a fence post or you’re a seasoned birder deciphering subtle clues that distinguish her not only from the male but also from the often-confused Sharp-shinned Hawk, this is an article for
Many bird enthusiasts stumble upon a small falcon and find themselves scratching their heads, wondering if it is an ‘American Kestrel or a Merlin?’ Today, we clear the confusion and equip you with the tools to confidently identify these two tiny raptors. American Kestrel vs. Merlin: Plumage characteristics American KestrelHabitatBreedingFeeding MigrationCalls & SoundsFemale KestrelKestrel vs
The American Kestrel gracefully commands attention on high perches and open habitats in North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, Arkansas, Alabama, Georgia, and Florida. The smallest falcon in the Southeast corner of the United States is represented by two distinct subspecies that share similar habitats but separate when breeding time arrives. Join
From its high-pitched “klee-Klee” calls to its long, drawn-out whines, the American Kestrel calls and sounds serve a specific purpose in its social life and survival strategies. This article explores the vocal repertoire of North America’s smallest bird of prey discussing the diverse range of sounds they produce, the contexts in which they are used,
The American kestrel’s migration is linked to latitudes. Those breeding in the northern reaches, are obligated to migrate long distances southward each winter. Kestrels inhabiting middle latitudes, encompassing a large portion of the continental United States, exhibit partial migration behavior, with some individuals making shorter trips and others staying put. In the warmer southern regions,
Imagine a tiny ball of down, blind and helpless, transforming into a sleek predator in just a month. That’s the story of American Kestrel chicks. Driven by an insatiable appetite and fueled by tireless parents, their journey is a display of rapid development and fierce sibling rivalry. But their story doesn’t end with fledging. Beyond
The American kestrel habitat consists of open spaces with short vegetation—grasslands, fallowed fields, forest edges, even urban parks. Shrubbery in recently fallowed fields attracts their favorite prey: large insects. This article explores kestrel habitat selection, use throughout the year, and adaptations (both physical and behavioral). It also briefly touches on bird species sharing kestrel habitat
The American kestrel’s diet is indeed diverse, encompassing four primary categories: insects, mammals, birds, and a minor fraction of amphibians (frogs and lizards). The relative prevalence of each prey group fluctuates throughout the year in response to shifting prey availability. This article delves into the kestrel’s prey types, its hunting and handling techniques, its role
