Flight of the Kestrel

Hello, I’m Amanda McNulty with Clemson Extension and Making It Grow. The American kestrel, our smallest falcon, is a handsome bird easily seen as they perch on power lines looking for prey on the ground below or flying past them, insects, rodents, reptiles, and birds. They bob their tails; maybe for balance, and also are remarkable at hovering all the while holding their head still while searching the ground or sky for a meal. Apparently, hovering is akin to flying backwards – they are flying into the wind but staying in place. If those facts aren’t enough to charm you, add this—they often hunt as a family with their young, teaching them the art of finding meals. In our part of the country, kestrels are declining. They’re cavity nesters but have to find an existing cavity, perhaps putting up nesting boxes may help them from further decline.