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
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a American Kestrel? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a American Kestrel is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love birds? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.