Which falcon is the smallest and most widespread falcon in North America?

The American kestrel is the smallest and most widespread falcon in North America.

It occurs across much of the continent, from Alaska and Canada through the United States and Mexico, and also reaches Central and South America. Despite its small size, it is a true falcon and has the pointed wings and hooked bill associated with the group.

Adult males are especially recognizable because they combine a blue-gray head and wings with a rusty back and tail. Females are generally larger and more reddish-brown, while both sexes may show dark markings on the face. The species often hunts from exposed perches, hovering briefly before dropping onto insects, small mammals, reptiles, or birds.

The American kestrel is sometimes called a sparrow hawk, but that informal name does not mean it is a hawk. It is also smaller than the merlin, another North American falcon. Nesting commonly takes place in tree cavities, buildings, or nest boxes rather than in nests constructed from sticks.