Roughly the same size as a blue jay or mourning dove, the kestrel has an average weight of 4.1 ounces (117 grams). They measure 8-12 inches in length and have a wingspan of 20-24 inches.

The male American Kestrel is a handsome bird, boasting vibrant colors with his rusty brown back, blue wings, and white chest.

Mariel Tharp took this photo of an American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) that was hovering in the air in the Valley.