American Kestrel

Falco sparverius

Appearance:

Very small falcon

Long tail

Long, narrow, pointed wings
White head with bluish-gray crown
Two distinct black facial stripes
Red-brown nap and back
Two black spots on each side of nape
 Male:
   Red-brown patch on crown  

   Red-brown breast 

   Red-brown tail with black tip

   Blue-gray wings with black spots

   Pale belly with black spots

Female: (not photographed)

   Red-brown wings

   Back and wing barred with black

   Red-brown tail with multiple dark bands

   Pale buff breast streaked with brown

Listen to its call.

While driving down Welch Road this morning, I saw this bird perched in the top of a tree by the side of the road. Initially, I thought it was a Mourning Dove due to its size and shape. However, as soon as it took off, I realized my mistake.

 

It seemed to hover gracefully in the air, almost like a toy kite. Apparently, it manages to stay in place by flapping its wings and adjusting its long tail.  

Learn more about the American Kestrel.