American Kestrel ( Falco sparverius )

The American Kestrel is the smallest of the falcons. It can be identified by its russett colored back and tail and two black vertical stripes on its face. The male has bluish-gray wing coverts. The Kestrel can be found in open country and in cities. They feed on insects, reptiles and small mammals and birds. They can be seen hovering before plunging after their prey. This small falcon ranges over all the continental U.S. and most of Canada. ( once called a Sparrow Hawk )

The adult Merlin has a grayish-blue back. The female and immatures are usually a dark brown. Plumage can vary from very dark to pale. The Merlin can be found in a variety of habitats but nests in open woods or wooded prairies. They prey on birds caught in flight. They also eat large insects and small rodents. Ranges over Alaska, Canada and most of the U.S. (once called a Pigeon Hawk)

The Caracara can be identified by its large head, long neck and legs. It is blackish-brown in color with a white throat and neck and reddish-orange bare facial skin. This bird inhabits open brushlands and can often be seen in the company of vultures on the ground. It feeds chiefly on carrion but also hunts insects and small mammals. Ranges over Mexico and southern parts of Texas.

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