Photo: Bob Haney, taken near Highway 99, WA

Order Falconiformes
Family Falconidae
Genus:  Falco
Species: Falco sparverius

Historically known as the American sparrow hawk, the American Kestrel, (Falco Sarverius) is the smallest member of the Falconidae family. It is one of the 13 kestrel species of the world to only be found in the western hemisphere.  The average weight of the American kestrel can range between 3.9 oz to 4.1 oz, with a wingspan from 51-61 cm (20-24 in). In Washington state, kestrels are a year-round species that are both residents and migratory.

Description
Distribution & Preferred Habitat
Breeding

Food Habits & Foraging Behaviour

Observation Narrative Highlights
Sounds
Population Trends and Conservation Issues
Literature Cited
About the Author