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Kestrel

Kestrels are small to medium-sized falcons in the genus Falco, best known for hovering while hunting over open country.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Kestrels are small to medium-sized falcons in the genus Falco. They are best known for hovering in place while hunting over open country. The name is used for several species, including the common kestrel and the American kestrel.

Taxonomy and species

Kestrels are falcons in the genus Falco. The name most often refers to the common kestrel in Europe and the American kestrel in the Americas, though other Falco species are also called kestrels.

Behaviour and hunting

Kestrels are known for hovering in the air with rapid wingbeats before dropping onto prey. This hunting style is especially associated with open landscapes such as fields, grasslands, and roadside edges.

Appearance and size

Kestrels are generally small falcons with pointed wings and relatively long tails. Many species show sexual dimorphism, with males and females differing in plumage colouration.

Range and habitat

Different kestrel species occur across large parts of the world, including North and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. They are commonly associated with open habitat and may also use farmland and urban areas.

Conservation

Conservation status varies by species and region. Some kestrel populations are stable or of least concern, while others have declined in parts of their range due to habitat change and related pressures.

Key facts

  • Kestrel is a common name for several falcon species in the genus Falco.
  • Kestrels are recognised for hovering in place while searching for prey.
  • The American kestrel is the smallest falcon in North America.
  • The common kestrel is widespread across much of Europe, Africa, and Asia.
  • Diet varies by species and region but often includes voles, mice, insects, and small birds.
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Canadian context

The American kestrel breeds in Canada and is the smallest falcon in North America, making it a familiar raptor for Canadian birdwatchers and wildlife observers.

Frequently asked questions

What is a kestrel?
A kestrel is a small falcon in the genus Falco, known for hovering while hunting over open ground.
What do kestrels eat?
Kestrels eat small prey such as voles, mice, shrews, insects, lizards, small birds, and other small animals.
Are all kestrels the same species?
No. “Kestrel” is a common name used for several species, including the common kestrel and the American kestrel.
Where are kestrels found?
Kestrels occur across wide parts of the world, especially in open habitats in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.
Why are kestrels known for hovering?
They often hover to scan the ground for prey before diving down to catch it.

References

  1. Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/American_Kestrel/overview
    Supports: American kestrel identification, size, habitat, behaviour, and range in the Americas.
  2. Audubon — https://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/american-kestrel
    Supports: American kestrel as North America's smallest falcon; nesting and habitat notes; population decline context.
  3. Royal Society for the Protection of Birds — https://www.rspb.org.uk/birds-and-wildlife/kestrel
    Supports: Common kestrel facts, diet, and decline in parts of its range.
  4. Woodland Trust — https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/trees-woods-and-wildlife/animals/birds/kestrel/
    Supports: Common kestrel scientific name, family, habitat, diet, and appearance.
  5. Buffalo Bill Center of the West — https://centerofthewest.org/2014/01/16/favorite-facts-about-american-kestrel/
    Supports: American kestrel as North America's smallest falcon and its broad distribution.