One of the best things about the Outer Banks is enjoying the seasonal visitors, and I'm not just talking about the summer vacationers! 

The American Kestrel, Falco sparverius, is the smallest (8 inch) falcon in North America and is frequently seen on the Outer Banks during the winter months.  These colorful birds can be distinguished by their slate gray wings, rust colored back, spotted breast and black mark under the eye.

Look for kestrels on power lines as they seem to be one of its favorite perching spots while looking for a meal of insects, reptiles, small mammals or birds.