The American kestrel is the smallest member of the falcon family found in North America. In Maryland, we often find kestrels around grasslands and fields that have some trees present. The presence of trees, alive or dead, that contain adequate nesting cavities is an important component of the kestrel’s habitat. Most Maryland farmyards provide suitable habitat for kestrels. In addition to describing many aspects of the kestrel, including distribution, habitat preferences, and food habits, this fact sheet illustrates how to try to attract kestrels to your property.