South · Mississippi Flyway

Are There American Kestrels in Tennessee?

Falco sparverius — Falconidae

UncommonAbundance
Winter visitorSeasonal status
9Active months
31,185Observations

Is the American Kestrel Found in Tennessee?

American Kestrels do occur in Tennessee, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat in winter.

American Kestrel is a North American backyard bird.

In Tennessee, this species is classified as uncommon. It is primarily a winter visitor to Tennessee. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, July, August, September, October, November, December. Peak activity occurs in January, December.

Monthly Activity — American Kestrel in Tennessee

Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
RegularSeasonalRare

Identification

FamilyFalconidae
View full American Kestrel profile →

Best Time to See American Kestrel in Tennessee

January
Peak
February
Peak
March
Peak
April
Active
May
Active
June
Active
July
Peak
August
Peak
September
Peak
October
Peak
November
Peak
December
Peak

Other birds in Tennessee

Birds you might also encounter in Tennessee.

American Kestrel in other states

American Kestrel in Tennessee: Quick Facts

The American Kestrel (Falco sparverius) is an uncommon bird in Tennessee. It is classified as a winter visitor in the state, falling within the South region and the Mississippi Flyway migration corridor.

The best months to spot this species in Tennessee are January, February, March, July, August, September, October, November, December. For birders in Nashville and throughout Tennessee, knowing the seasonal patterns of American Kestrel can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.

Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Tennessee using the related birds section.