American Kestrel Nesting Project
At the Missouri River Bird Observatory (MRBO), we are committed to protecting birds and their habitats. The American Kestrel—North America’s smallest falcon—plays a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance by controlling insect and rodent populations. Unfortunately, kestrel numbers continue to decline due to habitat loss and competition for nesting sites. Our Kestrel Nesting Project works to monitor their breeding success, provide safe nesting spaces, and collect data that supports conservation across Missouri and beyond.
What We Do
- Install and oversee the maintenance of kestrel nest boxes to ensure optimal conditions for occupancy and monitoring.
- Track eggs, chick growth, and nesting success.
- Remove invasive European Starling nests.
- Share data with the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s NestWatch Program.
- Collaborate with volunteers, landowners, and conservation partners to protect kestrels and other cavity-nesting species.
Project Progress
- 2023: 10 nesting boxes, 1 active kestrel nest.
- 2024: 17 nesting boxes, 5 active nests, 20 eggs laid, 4 nests successfully fledged.
- Challenges: Extreme heat and competition from invasive starlings.
- 2025:
• 26 nesting boxes across 20 properties
• 8 active kestrel nests
• 7 successful nests, fledging 27 young
• 18 female kestrels and 9 males documented using boxes
• 2 Eastern Bluebird nests recorded
• Two unusually late nests, with the final eggs laid June 24 and fledging in August
Challenges: Ongoing European Starling competition and late-season heat
These results help us understand how kestrels respond to different landscapes, nest heights, habitat conditions, and seasonal pressures.
Looking Ahead
The strength of this project comes from community collaboration. Thanks to our volunteers and landowners, 2025 provided our most informative season yet. In 2026, we aim to further expand nest box coverage, refine placement strategies, and continue supporting kestrels as they adapt to changing environmental conditions.
How You Can Help:
- Put up a kestrel nesting box.
- Volunteer to help monitor nests.
- Donate to support kestrel conservation.
Want to get involved? Contact Marlee at marlee.malmborg@mrbo.org.
Thank you for supporting the American Kestrels!