FALCONS
American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
Kestrel on a post.
- The American Kestrel is the smallest (robin-sized) falcon found in the U.S.
- Feeds mainly on mice and insects.
- One of the few falcons that “hovers” over its prey.
- Fequently seen hovering or perched on electric lines along roadsides.
- One of the few raptors that exhibits sexual dimorphism (sexes have different plumages).
- As falconry birds they are high maintence and difficult to train. Not recommended as a first bird.
- Can be trained to fly to a lure and hunt sparrows and starlings
Kestrel on a post.
Click for more information from the Patuxent Bird Identification Infocenter.