American kestrels are the smallest falcons in North America. They are found in North, Central and South America.
The life of an American kestrel
American kestrels can grow up to 12 inches long, weigh up to 5.8 ounces and have an average lifespan of five years. Their wingspan can reach up to two feet. Males have blue wings, while females are a reddish brown. Both have distinctive black vertical marks on their faces.
They hunt in flight, gliding over prey and diving down to snatch food using their strong talons and sharp beaks. Prey includes insects, rodents, reptiles, amphibians, small birds and other small animals.
During mating, males attract females by flying high, calling loudly and swiftly diving down to get females attention. American Kestrels do not build nests. They use holes in trees, rocks or abandoned nests of other birds. Females lay three to seven eggs at a time, which hatch after about a month. Females primarily tend to the eggs while males gather food.
Predators include larger birds like red-tailed hawks, prairie falcons and great-horned owls. Bobcats, coyotes, skunks, snakes and raccoons attack American kestrel nests to prey on their eggs and young.
American kestrels at the zoo
American kestrels are ambassador animals at the zoo. They help educate guests about their species during special presentations.
