The American Kestrel is the smallest and most colorful falcon in North America, roughly the size of a robin. It is one of very few raptors with marked sexual dimorphism in color — males have blue-gray wings and a rufous back, females are entirely rufous. It can see ultraviolet light, which allows it to spot urine trails of voles that are visible in UV but not ordinary light.
Best time to see a American Kestrel
The best time to see a American Kestrel is October–February, when about 60% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 79,705 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a American Kestrel? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American Kestrel sightings near you
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