When is a kestrel not a kestrel?

When is a kestrel not a kestrel? 

When its an American Kestrel! As I found out when I was recently photographing raptors in the mountains of Utah (along with some skiing). 

So, whats the difference?

Well, for one where it is found:  The Common Kestrel featured earlier can be found in Europe, Africa, Asia (including rare Hong Kong records), whereas the American Kestrel featured here today is found in North & South America only

You will not find American Kestrels in Hong Kong. Boooooooo. 

Appearance

The males: The Common Kestrel is overall more muted in colouration, whereas the American Kestrel is more colourful with a striking facial pattern with two vertical black stripes.

The American species is slightly smaller and more delicate in build.

The American Kestrel is technically not as closely related to the Common Kestrel as people assume — the genetics are interesting, as the science shows that they belong to different evolutionary groups. Most Old World kestrels (including Common Kestrel) form a tight genetic group sometimes called the “true kestrels.”

The American Kestrel, however, belongs to a different branch of the falcon family tree. Genetically, it is closer to certain Neotropical falcons than to Eurasian kestrels.

So despite similar behaviour (hovering, small prey hunting), they diverged millions of years ago.

Their convergent behaviour can be explained by largely convergent evolution — similar ecological niches leading to similar hunting strategies.

Hmmmmm, they look very similar to me….but hey, I am not a scientist. I just take and look at the photos…..