In summer, this raptor uses a hunting style for grasshoppers and mice, while in winter it often hunts small birds:

The American Kestrel is known for its adaptable hunting strategies, which vary by season and the availability of prey. During the summer months, the American Kestrel primarily preys on insects such as grasshoppers, as these are abundant and accessible. It also hunts small mammals like mice when necessary. This versatility in prey selection allows the kestrel to thrive in varying environments.

In winter, the American Kestrel shifts its focus to hunting small birds, which are more vulnerable during the colder months when other food sources are limited. This seasonal adaptation underscores the kestrel's ability to modify its hunting techniques based on the changing availability of prey throughout the year.

This behavior distinguishes the American Kestrel from the other raptors listed. The Northern Harrier, for example, has a unique hunting method that relies heavily on flying low over fields, and while it does change its diet based on seasons, its primary summer prey can differ significantly from that of the kestrel. The Broad-winged Hawk primarily hunts larger insects and small mammals during summer and is not commonly associated with winter hunting of small birds as the kestrel is. The Sharp-shinned Hawk, while a winter bird hunter, does not typically exhibit the same range of seasonal prey adaptation as the