About the American Kestrel

  • The American Kestrel is....

    The smallest falcon in North America.

  • Is the distribution of the American Kestrel everywhere in North America?

    Everywhere except Northern Canada, Coastal Western Canada and Coastal Alaska.

  • What is the scientific name?

    Falco Sparverius

  • Is the American Kestrel the smallest bird of prey?

    In North America yes, in the world no. The smallest bird of prey in the world is the Black-thighed Falconet from South Asia. It is the size of a sparrow.

  • What is the notch in the upper beak?

    It is called a tomial tooth, it is used to cut into the prey item.

  • When does breeding season begin in MD (where my nest boxes are)?

    Breeding season in Maryland begins between 15 April and 15 May.

  • How many eggs do Kestrels lay?

    Kestrels lay between three and six eggs, usually 48 hours apart.

  • Do both the male and female incubate the eggs?

    Yes, but mostly the female.

  • When do the eggs hatch?

    After 28-31 days incubation.

  • Do both the male and female hunt after the eggs hatch?

    No, only the male hunts. The female feeds and broods (sits on chicks during early stage of growth).

  • When do the young attain adult weight?

    At 2-3 weeks old - they grow quickly.

  • When do the young fledge (leave the nest)?

    They fledge 28-31 days after hatching.

  • How long do the fledglings remain in the core nest area?

    Typically 3-4 weeks.

  • Interesting Kestrel behaviors...

    • If food is abundant they may hide uneaten food, this is called caching.

    • When hunting Kestrels will often hover overhead (before diving down to catch the prey), similar to the Osprey.