Southern California is home to a diversity of raptor species, from large birds of prey like bald eagles to small falcon species. Of the small raptors found in the region, the most common and widely distributed is the American kestrel (Falco sparverius). The American kestrel is a small falcon, roughly the size of a mourning dove, that can be found year-round throughout much of California. This article will focus on providing an overview of the American kestrel, including its identification, diet, habitat, breeding, conservation status, and where to spot this charismatic little raptor in Southern California.
Identifying the American Kestrel
The American kestrel is North America’s smallest and most abundant falcon. It measures 8-12 inches long with a wingspan of 20-24 inches and weighs 3-6 ounces. Male kestrels are slightly larger than females.
Some key identification features of the American kestrel include:
- Bright rusty orange coloration on the back and tail
- Two vertical black stripes on each white cheek
- Blue-gray wings
- White underside with black spots or bars
- Long tail with a blue-black band at the tip
- Dark “mustache” mark
- Yellow feet and cere
- Sexual dimorphism: Males have blue-gray wings while females have brown wings with black barring
In flight, the kestrel has rapid wingbeats interspersed with glides and hovers. Its long tail is spread to aid steering and braking. When perched, the kestrel characteristically pumps its tail up and down while scanning the environment.
Diet
The American kestrel is a fierce predator that eats mostly small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Its diet includes:
- Voles
- Mice
- Shrews
- Moles
- Bats
- Small birds such as sparrows, starlings, robins
- Lizards
- Snakes
- Large insects and spiders
Kestrels hunt from perches or while hovering, scanning the ground for prey with their excellent vision. Once spotted, they dive down swiftly to snatch their target in their talons. Kestrels are able to catch prey up to half their own body weight.
Habitat
The American kestrel inhabits a wide range of open and semi-open habitats at elevations up to 10,000 feet. Their preferred habitat includes:
- Grasslands
- Meadows
- Agricultural areas
- Prairies
- Deserts
- Forest openings
- Urban and suburban areas
Access to elevated perches for hunting and open ground for foraging are key habitat requirements. Kestrels readily nest and roost on both natural cavities and man-made structures. You’re likely to find kestrels perched on utility wires, poles, fences, and buildings even in urban environments.
Breeding
The American kestrel breeding season runs from March to August, with activity peaking in May and June. Though they are non-migratory, kestrels head to nesting sites throughout much of North America for breeding.
Kestrels do not build their own nests. They nest in cavities in trees, crevices in rocks, woodpecker holes, and nest boxes. The male locates potential nest sites and subsequently shows them to the female, who makes the final selection.
3-7 white to pinkish eggs are laid and incubated primarily by the female for about 30 days. The male provides most of the food during incubation. The chicks hatch altricial and helpless. Both parents feed and care for the young, which fledge at around 30 days old. Fledglings remain dependent on the parents for several more weeks.
Breeding Table
Breeding Activity | Timing |
---|---|
Nest Site Selection | March – April |
Egg Laying | May – June |
Incubation | 30 days |
Nestling Period | 30 days |
Fledging | June – July |
Conservation Status
The American kestrel has a large range and is one of the most abundant raptors in North America. However, there are signs of population decline in parts of its range, including in Southern California. Habitat loss and degradation, as well as reductions in prey populations due to pesticides, are likely factors in kestrel declines. The American kestrel is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. Ongoing monitoring and conservation will be important for this species. Providing nest boxes in appropriate habitat can assist kestrel breeding.
Where to Spot the American Kestrel in Southern California
The American kestrel can be found year-round in much of Southern California in suitable habitat. Here are some top places to spot kestrels in the region:
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
This large desert state park hosts wintering kestrels that migrate from farther north. Look for kestrels perched on yucca stalks and utility lines along the roads.
San Jacinto Wildlife Area
This wildlife area northwest of Lake Perris provides excellent raptor viewing opportunities, including good chances of seeing kestrels perched on wires above the wetland marshes.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve
In spring, kestrels can be found hunting the meadows and grasslands of this high desert area during the peak wildflower blooms.
Claremont
Many kestrels live year-round and nest in this suburban L.A. county city. They are frequently seen perched on wires above neighborhoods and open space parks.
Convict Lake
Located in the eastern Sierra Nevada mountains, Convict Lake is a hotspot for migrating and wintering American kestrels that hunt the meadows around the lake.
Conclusion
The American kestrel is a small fierce predator that thrives in open habitats throughout much of North America. It is abundant in many areas of Southern California, where it can be found year-round. This colorful little falcon is easily observed hunting from perches and wires and appreciated by bird enthusiasts. Though kestrel populations currently appear stable, ongoing conservation will be needed to preserve sufficient habitat and food sources for this species in the long term. By providing nest boxes and protecting grasslands and wetlands, we can ensure that the American kestrel continues to be a part of California’s diverse avifauna.