Classification and Range American kestrels are classified in the genus Falco of the family Falconidae. There are 16 subspecies of American kestrels currently recognized throughout North and South America. The American kestrel is our most abundant North American falcon. It is found throughout North America south of the tree line.
Northern populations migrate south in the winter as far as Central America and the Caribbean.
Habitat American kestrels inhabit a wide range of habitats, from deserts to forest edges, but they prefer more open country. Their long, tapered wings give them the telltale characteristics of a falcon. This is one of the few raptors in North America where the males and females can be distinguished by their plumage. Both males and females have rusty-colored heads with a gray fringe. Females have reddish-brown wings and banded tails.