What is a common prey for the American kestrel?

The American kestrel primarily preys on small mammals, with mice being one of the most common and preferred targets. These birds are agile hunters with excellent vision, allowing them to spot small rodents from a considerable distance. Mice, being abundant in various habitats, provide a reliable food source for kestrels. Their hunting technique often involves hovering in the air and suddenly diving down when they spot their prey on the ground.

While kestrels may occasionally hunt birds, fish, or even larger mammals such as rabbits, their diet predominantly consists of small mammals like mice. This makes the choice of mice the most representative of their feeding habits and ecological role as hunters in their environment. Understanding this relationship is crucial for an apprentice falconer as it informs proper feeding practices and the selection of hunting prospects.