American Kestrels are apt and able hunters. They hunt large insects, bats, mice, birds and small reptiles.
Kestrels usually hover before dropping on prey from above, pinning victims to the ground.
They rarely chase prey, such as flying insects or bats, through the air. Pair bonding among kestrels is strong and usually permanent. A pair is established after the male takes over a particular territory. Thereafter, a female will begin to hunt and associate herself with the male. The major components that will strengthen the bond between the two kestrels include courtship feeding of the female by the male, aerial displays and the search for a nest site.