Kestrel Monitoring

American Kestrel Monitoring Project

San Diego County

In 2025, we launched our American kestrel monitoring project to better understand and support one of North America’s smallest and most charismatic falcons. This work connects local landscapes to a broader conservation effort through our partnership with the Golden State Kestrel Research Network, contributing data that helps track nesting success, habitat use, and long-term population trends across the western United States.

Across much of the West, American kestrels have shown steady declines. While the causes are still being investigated, habitat change and loss of suitable nesting sites are likely key factors. Our project focuses on one tangible solution: increasing safe, available nesting opportunities while collecting meaningful data that informs conservation at both local and regional scales.

We are actively installing and monitoring nest boxes throughout San Diego County, building a network of sites that support kestrels during the breeding season. Each box represents both a potential nesting site and a data point, helping us better understand how kestrels are using our shared landscape.

A core part of this work is community involvement. This project is designed to bring people into conservation in a direct and meaningful way. Whether you host a nest box on your property or participate as a monitor, you become part of a larger effort to support kestrels and contribute to real research.

kestrel in nestbox

What makes a good kestrel property?

Kestrels prefer open habitats where they can hunt efficiently. Ideal locations often include:

  • Open fields, grasslands, or agricultural areas
  • Perching opportunities such as trees, fence lines, or utility poles
  • Minimal disturbance near the nest site during breeding season
  • A clear flight path to and from the box

Properties that provide a mix of open foraging space and safe nesting conditions can play an important role in supporting local kestrel pairs.

If you are interested in hosting a nest box or becoming a trained monitor, we invite you to join the project.

Become a Kestrel Monitoring Volunteer!

Name(Required)
Email(Required)
Are you interested in(Required)
Are you committed to following nest box monitoring protocols and a code of conduct if you are selected as a volunteer monitor?(Required)
American kestrels are federally protected birds and all monitors must agree to protocols or they may be subject to prosecution.
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