During the summer, which raptor employs a hunting style adapted to catching grasshoppers and mice?

The American Kestrel employs a unique hunting style that makes it particularly effective at catching grasshoppers and mice during the summer months. This small falcon is known for its ability to hover in place while surveying the ground, allowing it to spot potential prey like grasshoppers with remarkable precision. Its agility and speed enable it to pursue small mammals like mice as well. This hunting behavior is especially beneficial in summer when grasshoppers are abundant, making it an efficient predator in open fields and grasslands. The kestrel’s adaptability to various habitats further enhances its hunting prowess in catching both insects and small rodents during this season.

In contrast, the other raptors in the choices listed have different primary hunting methods and prey preferences. For example, the Northern Harrier typically hunts in open habitats and relies on a low flying style to surprise small mammals and birds, while the Broad-winged Hawk generally hunts larger prey from a perch or during migration. The Sharp-shinned Hawk, on the other hand, primarily hunts smaller birds in forested areas rather than focusing on ground-dwelling prey.