American Kestrel

American Kestrel key facts

Care level

Advanced

Lifespan

10-15 years

Size

22-31cm (wingspan 51-61cm; males 80-143g, females 86-165g)

Diet

Frozen raptor food such as mice and day-old chicks; in the wild insects, small birds, rodents and reptiles

Cage

Small though it is, it still needs a weather-proof, predator-proof mews or tethered housing. Its small body loses heat easily, so provide shelter from wind in winter.

Temperament

A solitary hunter without group sociability. It is regarded as a beginner's bird, but the margin in weight management is narrow, so daily weighing and fine adjustment of rations are essential.

Vocalization

It gives a shrill repeated killy-killy-killy. The volume is limited by its small size, but it calls readily when excited.

Notes

Listed on CITES Appendix II, so import requires an export permit. In so small a bird, an error in ration quickly affects condition.

About American Kestrel

The American Kestrel, North America's smallest falcon, has a rufous back with barring and blue-gray wings on males. Though famed as a classic beginner falconry bird, keeping one calls for advanced raptor-care experience.

7 things to know before welcoming a American Kestrel

1. 1Raptor-Specific Housing

   As an agile bird of prey, an American Kestrel needs more than a small cage to stay healthy. Set up a proper enclosure with perches and enough room to fly before bringing one home.

2. 2Live-Prey Diet Needs

   Kestrels are carnivorous hunters that feed on insects and small rodents in the wild, so standard bird feed isn't enough on its own. Line up a reliable source of fresh, appropriate prey ahead of time.

3. 3Weight Tracking Matters

   A raptor's weight closely reflects its condition and activity level, so daily weighing and record-keeping become part of everyday care. Keep a scale and simple log on hand from the start.

4. 4Handling Takes Experience

   Handling a kestrel calls for falconry-style gloves and techniques that take time to learn, and an inexperienced handler can stress the bird. This specialized skill set is exactly why the species is considered suitable for advanced keepers.

5. 5Alert and Easily Startled

   Despite its small size, this kestrel keeps a wild bird's sharp instincts and can startle at sudden noise or movement. A calm, low-stimulus environment helps it settle.

6. 6Daily Flight Exercise

   In the wild these falcons chase prey through open air, so limited flight time can quickly lead to boredom or stress. Make regular, safe flight opportunities part of the routine.

7. 7Prepare Before Arrival

   Look for a vet experienced with birds of prey before you bring one home. Also settle who handles feeding, housing, and daily care within your household in advance.

Frequently asked questions about American Kestrel

Q.Can a beginner keep an American Kestrel?

A.This species is rated as suitable for advanced keepers. Because it requires raptor-specific diet management and handling skills, it best suits someone who already has experience with birds of prey.

Q.How big does an American Kestrel get?

A.Adults measure about 22 to 31 cm long with a wingspan of 51 to 61 cm. Males weigh roughly 80 to 143 g and females 86 to 165 g, with females typically a bit larger.

Q.Can males and females be told apart?

A.Females tend to be slightly larger and heavier than males. Plumage also differs, with males showing distinctive blue-gray wings.

Q.What do American Kestrels eat?

A.In the wild they are carnivorous hunters that prey on insects and small rodents. In captivity, their diet still needs to center on appropriate live or whole prey.

Q.Can it be kept loose indoors like a typical pet bird?

A.As a bird of prey, it needs a dedicated setup with perches and room to fly. A standard birdcage isn't suitable for full-time housing, so providing space to exercise is essential.

Useful tools for American Kestrel care

Learn more about American Kestrel in the encyclopedia

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