TaxonHub

American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

Small, widespread North American falcon known for its vibrant plumage and exceptional hunting skills, primarily hunting small prey from perched positions

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Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Diverse landscapes including open grasslands, agricultural fields, urban edges, woodlands, and desert regions across North and South America

Ecological Role

Crucial predator in small rodent and insect population control, serving as an important mesopredator in ecosystem balance

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Distinctive rusty-red back, blue-gray wings in males, brownish in females, with characteristic black vertical striping
  • LIMBS WINGS Pointed wings ideal for hovering, sharp talons for prey capture, wingspan of 51-61 cm
  • HEAD SENSORY Keen binocular vision, specialized ultraviolet light perception for prey detection, distinct facial markings
  • BODY STRUCTURE Compact raptor, approximately 22-31 cm in length, weighing 80-165 grams, with relatively small, agile frame
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons
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Related Species in Falconidae