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American Kestrel Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    The slender American Kestrel is roughly the size and shape of a Mourning Dove, although it has a larger head; longer, narrow wings; and long, square-tipped tail. In flight, the wings are often bent and the wingtips swept back.

    Relative Size

    Mourning Dove-sized; slightly smaller than a Merlin

    Relative Sizebetween robin and crowbetween robin and crow

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 8.7-12.2 in (22-31 cm)
      • Weight: 2.8-5.8 oz (80-165 g)
      • Wingspan: 20.1-24.0 in (51-61 cm)