*Oology is a branch of ornithology studying bird eggs, nests and breeding behaviour. The word is derived from the Greek oion, meaning egg.
26. American Kestrel
This part of the Stanislaus Audubon Website is focused on 44 common Central Valley nesting species with background about their nesting habits. Please check the Great Valley Museum Central Valley Egg Collection starting page for links to all the featured species.
AMERICAN KESTREL NESTING INFORMATION (From birdsoftheworld.org)
Nests - In nonmigratory or partially migratory populations, pairs sometimes remain associated during winter; aerial competition between males over a female began as early as end of January. Male locates and inspects potential nest cavities within his established territory, then escorts female to them; female apparently makes selection and is not known to inspect cavities other than those shown to her by male. An obligate secondary cavity nester, using woodpecker-excavated and natural cavities; readily accepts nest boxes, and occasionally nests in buildings. No nesting material brought to nest cavity.
Eggs - typically short-elliptical, ground color varies from white through cream to yellowish or light reddish-brown; overlaid with blotches, mottling (sometimes concentrated around blunter end), with varying shades of violet-magenta, grays, and especially browns. Clutch size is usually 4 or 5 eggs.
Incubation - Usually 27–29 days with incubation mostly by the female.
Fledging - Young are altricial. For first 7–10 d, male is sole provider; there-after, both parents bring food. Typically fledge at 28–31 days.
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