The group of magnificent birds known as raptors are renowned for many things, including their diet, their flight, and their size.
The wingspan of most raptors is over 3 feet, and some have wingspans of 7 feet or more. But here in Texas, we happen to have a small raptor who, by very definition, contradicts the “everything is bigger in Texas” mantra, and that bird of prey is known as the American Kestrel.
The American Kestrel is readily spotted along roadways throughout the state, depending on the season, as it perches on high-wires and fences. It seems to prefer rolling plains and grassy areas, although it will utilize just about any open area that is larger than an acre or two. In all but the Rio Grande Valley, where northern populations tend to overwinter, it can be observed year-round throughout the remainder of the state. Outside of Texas it may be seen throughout the continental United States northward as far as trees occur and southward to southern Mexico.
