Get Involved

Kids and the Environment

The American Kestrel

The American Kestrel

What's its name?

American Kestrel (Falco Sparverius), formerly known as Sparrow Hawk

Where's it found?

Most of North and South America, living in meadows, pastures and hay fields

How tall is it?

9 – 11 inches

What's its wingspan?

21 inches

What color is it?

Reddish back and tail, with a black and white patterned face. The male's wings are blue-gray and the female's are a reddish color.

What sound does it make?

A sharp killy, killy, killy

What are its habits?

These small falcons can often be found perched on telephone poles or wires, especially at the edge of a field or roadside, where it searches for prey. It is often seen hovering on rapidly beating wings.

What does it eat?

Insects, small rodents and frogs


Build a Kestrel nest box with your parents!




Street Address: 3 S 580 Naperville Road, Wheaton, IL 60187-8761
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 5000, Wheaton, IL 60189-5000
email: forest@dupageforest.com (630) 933-7200 Fax: (630) 933-7204 TTY: (800) 526-0857