Prairie Falcon 



Kent & Donna Dannen 



AMERICAN KESTREL (Faico sparverius) 



Although it lacks the romantic appeal of the larger and rarer falcons, the 

 kestrel is nonetheless a handsome and interesting species. This diminutive 

 falcon often soars leisurely. When in pursuit of prey it also kites, remaining 

 in a stationary position in the air while surveying the landscape for insects, 

 which are its primary prey. Both sexes have handsome black, white, blue, 

 and reddish head and facial patterns, while the males have blue-gray wings. 

 Kestrels are common residents of the sagebrush-grassland environments in 

 both parks and are occasional breeders in the Dougias-fir/aspen habitat 

 complexes. This species, which was formerly called the sparrow hawk, 

 nests in tree cavities and cliff outcroppings. The eggs, three to seven in 

 number, are whitish with a generally spotted appearance. 



Cf 



BlueCrouse 



Roberto. Cildart 



29 



