Wildlife Wednesday: Kestrels

Behold the American Kestrel, North America's smallest falcon! This robin-sized raptor is a common sight in and around grasslands, where it hunts prey including insects, rodents, snakes, and small birds. Most people have likely seen one perched on powerlines, whether they recognized it or not! However, there are various factors threatening the continued abundance—and survival—of kestrels, and data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey show that populations have dropped by over 50% since the 1970s. Take a short hike to grassland habitat at Treehaven, and keep an eye out for kestrels as you discover the reasons behind their decline. You'll learn about kestrel conservation efforts in Wisconsin and how to support them, as well as ways you can help on your own!