American Kestrel (Falco sparverius)
Place observed
Former golf course aera
Description
The smallest of Quebec's falcons (22.5 to 30 cm). The American Kestrel has vertical black stripes under its eyes. Its back and tail are reddish-brown, and its breast is white with dark spots. Its wings are long and narrow, and the tip of its tail is square. Females and males can be distinguished by the color of their wings: rufous in the female and blue-gray in the male. In addition, the female is slightly larger and her tail has several small black stripes at its tip, unlike the male's, which has only one. Juveniles resemble females.
Habitat
Found throughout North America. In summer, it can be seen over most of the province, but mainly in the southern half. It frequents open areas such as meadows, farmland and fallow fields. It can even be seen in urban areas. In Rosemère, data indicates it has been observed at the site of the former golf course. Most individuals migrate to warmer areas for the winter.
Diet
This is a species that needs space: around 140 hectares to hunt and 500 hectares to live. It is active during the day and feeds on large insects (e.g. locusts, grasshoppers), small mammals (e.g. rodents), frogs and small birds. It can be seen hovering in flight or settling on a perch, then swooping down to capture its prey.
Breeding
During the breeding season, the Kestrel nests in tree cavities, wall or rock crevices, or occasionally in old crow nests. The female lays 4 to 5 eggs most of the time, and usually only one clutch. Babies leave the nest after about 30 days and stay with their parents for a further 12 to 24 days.
Status
The status of this species has been classified as vulnerable in Quebec by NatureServe.
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