The American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is the smallest and most common falcon found in North America. Also known as the sparrow hawk, this colorful raptor is a popular choice among falconers and bird enthusiasts looking to own a bird of prey. Though small, kestrels pack a predator’s punch and require specialized care. For these reasons, there is more to consider than just the upfront cost when deciding whether to purchase an American kestrel.
Cost to Purchase an American Kestrel
An American kestrel can cost anywhere from $100 to $800 for a captive-bred bird from a breeder. The wide price range reflects differences in age, lineage, and training. Some key factors impacting cost include:
Age
– Nestlings (under 5 weeks old) – $100 to $300
– Fledglings (5 to 8 weeks old) – $200 to $500
– Juveniles (2-12 months old) – $300 to $600
– Adults (1 year or older) – $400 to $800
Younger birds generally cost less to purchase but require more intensive training and socialization. Older birds command a higher purchase price but may be easier to handle and train if the breeder did a good job imprinting the bird when young.
Lineage
– Normal/pet quality – $100 to $500
– Show quality – $400 to $800
Show quality birds have excellent feathering, a sharp appearance, and colors that adhere closely to the breed standard. Normal or pet quality kestrels are more affordable but may have minor physical imperfections.
Training
– Untrained – $100 to $300
– Basic obedience trained – $300 to $600
– Fully trained – $500 to $800
Training is another big factor impacting price. Untrained birds are the least expensive but also require the most work and expertise to handle. A basic obedience trained kestrel may be glove trained and accustomed to a leash. A fully trained individual could be proficient at flying to a lure and returning on command.
Upfront Costs Beyond Purchase of Bird
The purchase price of the kestrel is only part of what’s needed up front to properly care for one of these birds. Some other costs to factor in include:
Housing
An appropriate housing setup is vital for any bird of prey. For an American kestrel, most experts recommend getting an extra large flight cage, preferably with extra height to allow for short flights within the enclosure. New flight cages cost $200 and up. Pairing the cage with a weathering perch and plenty of enrichment items provides necessary stimulation.
Outdoor Aviary
In addition to its main indoor housing, an outdoor aviary where the kestrel can get fresh air and sunlight is ideal. Prefabricated aviaries for raptors cost around $500 to $1,500. You can also custom build an aviary using wire enclosures and wood framing for less.
Falconry Equipment
Falconry gear like jesses, leashes, gloves, lures, and related training equipment generally runs $100 to $300 to get a starter setup. This covers items for handling, training, and recalling your bird. Proper fitting is important, so purchasing from a reputable falconry supplier is best.
Perches, Perch Boxes, Stump Perches
Having multiple suitable indoor and outdoor perches enriches the bird’s environment. These cost around $25 to $100 each.
Bath Pan
Bathing is important for feather maintenance. A basic raptor bath pan costs less than $50.
Food and Supplements
Quality kestrel diets, nutritional supplements, and vitamin additives average $20 to $50 per month for one bird.
Toys
Environmental enrichment toys help stave off boredom. A starter set costs around $30. You’ll need to buy new toys regularly as they get damaged.
Travel Crate
A bird travel crate makes transporting your kestrel safe for vet visits or trips. A basic crate runs $50 to $150.
Recurring Costs of Kestrel Ownership
Along with upfront costs, prospective kestrel owners need to plan for ongoing recurring expenses. These include:
Food
A high quality, nutrient-dense diet is vital for any raptor. Sources recommend feeding American kestrels size-appropriate mice or chicks. These can cost $50 to $150 per month depending on the bird’s appetite and where you source prey animals.
Veterinary Care
Annual checkups and any incidental medical issues can easily run $200 a year or more. Falcons require specialized avian veterinarians, so costs are higher than a typical pet.
Enrichment Replacements
Toys wear out and need replacing every 1-3 months. Perches may need to be repaired or replaced over time as well. Plan on a $30 to $50 monthly enrichment budget.
Training Upkeep
An investment in ongoing training helps maintain a strong bond and reinforces desired behaviors. Group training events and private refreshers run $50 to $150 per session.
License and Inspections (for Falconry)
Many states require falconers to be licensed, which costs around $100 annually. Periodic facilities inspections may also be mandatory, running $50 to $100 each time.
Total Costs of Kestrel Ownership
Accounting for all the upfront and recurring expenses, costs for owning an American kestrel realistically total:
– Year 1: $2,000 to $4,000
– Each year after: $1,500 to $3,000
The overall investment can vary based on factors like your state’s regulations, the bird’s health and appetite, housing choices, and training extent. Operating on the lower end of the spectrum requires diligent deal searching and DIY caging/perch solutions.
Making an American Kestrel Affordable
While not cheap pets, American kestrels offer big rewards for raptor enthusiasts willing to invest in their specialized care. Here are some tips to lower overall costs:
Partner with Other Falconers
Sharing resources, gear, and knowledge with other local falconers cuts costs. Things like free facilities inspections and group prey buys make falconry more affordable.
DIY Enclosure and Perches
You can save substantially by constructing your own caging, perches, and outdoor aviary. Use plans and material lists from experienced sources.
Buy Used Gear
Gently used items like flight cages and falconry equipment offer huge savings. Check raptor classified ads and swap meets. Disinfect and examine condition carefully before purchase.
Source Economical Prey
Buying frozen feeder mice and chicks in bulk brings down the monthly food bill. Quail can also be an economical frozen feeder alternative at certain times of year.
Train Yourself
While challenging, patiently training your kestrel using online and book resources cuts down or eliminates expensive professional training costs. Joining falconry clubs gives access to mentors.
Care for Other Birds
If permitted in your area, caring for other falconers’ birds for pay helps offset costs. Some even do a bird “time share” with a friend.
Conclusion
American kestrels require a significant commitment of time, energy, and money. But for passionate raptor enthusiasts, sharing their lives with these gorgeous falcons is extremely rewarding. While not cheap, following the guidance above helps reduce overall costs without sacrificing proper care. Be sure to check all state and local regulations before obtaining any bird of prey. Let your enthusiasm guide you, but also enter kestrel ownership with clear vision and careful planning.
