Found in open areas and semi-forested habitats.

Orangish tail. Bluish wings characteristic of the male; female has orangish-brown wings. Smallest of the North American falcons. Often hovers in mid-air while hunting. 

Nests in cavities. Feeds on terrestrial arthropods and small vertebrates; small snakes, lizards, frogs, and fish may also be taken. 

See a 6-minute film about local kestrels by Wally De Young; first of MDIA 's "Wild Mount Diablo"  film series:  https://youtu.be/NEHLANzZUcU