American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

American kestrel. Photo: David Menke, USFWS

The American kestrel is found throughout southern and north-western Canada, and can be identified by its two black facial stripes and its russet-coloured shoulders and tail. The male American kestrel also displays blue-grey wings and crest. This bird of prey is also know as a sparrow hawk, and will eat small birds, though this is chiefly done in winter. At other times of the year, the American kestrel feeds on insects and small mammals.

Distribution of American Kestrel in Canada