Falco sparverius
Length: 8-12 in Wingspan: 20-25 in Weight: 0.25-0.5 lbs
Identification:
Long, pointed wings and tail. Prominent black malar stripe and parallel stripe behind cheek. Rusty tail wit black outer band. Male is light below, blue/red above. Female is black and brown barred on back.
Distribution:
Range map by Neotropical Birds
Cool Facts:
Unlike humans, birds can see ultraviolet light; American Kestrels use this to spot urine trails of small mammals. One of the smallest raptors, kestrels can also become prey for larger birds – probably why they sport false eye spots behind their head.
Make your own bird cookies!
References:
Bird on the Move 