This tiny raptor has the typical falcon body shape, a short neck and a small head that has a black and white pattern with dark, vertical, black stripes on the side of its head. The kestrel has a sharp, hooked bill and large, talon-tipped feet that are ideal for hunting. In flight, pointed wings and rapid wingbeats help to identify this raptor. Life History 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.