American Kestrel

North America's littlest falcon.

NPS Photo/Doggrell

Quick Facts

Scientific Name: Falco sparverius
Distribution/Habitat: North American and South American deserts, grasslands, and alpine meadows.
Average Size: 9-12 inches long, 20-24 inch wingspan
Average Lifespan: 5 years
Diet: Insects and small mammals, birds, and reptiles.

Did You Know?

Black vertical slashes on the sides of a Kestrel’s pale face is sometimes called a “mustache” and a “sideburn.”