The American Kestrel is a small, colorful bird of prey commonly found throughout North and South America. Also known by several other names, the American Kestrel is often called the Sparrow Hawk or the Merlin Falcon due to its similar appearance and behavior to other species in the falcon family. In some regions, the bird is referred to as the Windhover or the Hover-hawk because of its ability to hover in place while hunting for prey. Another common synonym for the American Kestrel is the Killy Hawk, a name derived from the bird's scientific name, Falco sparverius. No matter what name it goes by, the American Kestrel is a beloved and important member of many ecosystems.