The American Kestrel weights a little less than 6 ounces, and is the smallest in the falcon family in North America. It is similar in size to a dove. It can be found from central Mexico to Alaska and across the U.S. and Canada. It can be difficult to photograph them because they quick take to flight if one very close. This one was on a wire and took off when I stopped my car for a shot. I got it!

Kestrels can be seen year-round in Oregon, especially in open areas around the Klamath Basin. They like grasslands, farm fields and meadows. However, they can also be found in parks and cities.