Lesser Kestrel

1 day ago

Spotted

A small, elegant falcon, similar in appearance to the Common Kestrel but slightly smaller, with longer wings, and lacking the dark spots on its back (males). It often hunts insects in colonies.

Where to spot

Breeds across southern Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for winter. Found in open grasslands, steppes, agricultural areas, and semi-deserts.

How to spot

Look for its buoyant, graceful flight and characteristic hovering, though it hovers less frequently than the Common Kestrel. Males are easily identified by their unspotted rufous back. Listen for its chirping calls around colonies.

When to spot

Best observed during the breeding season (spring/summer) in its northern range, especially around nesting colonies. Also seen during spring and autumn migration.

Where to spot

Breeds across southern Europe, North Africa, and Central Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa for winter. Found in open grasslands, steppes, agricultural areas, and semi-deserts.

How to spot

When to spot

Best observed during the breeding season (spring/summer) in its northern range, especially around nesting colonies. Also seen during spring and autumn migration.

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Lesser Kestrels are highly colonial nesters, often forming large colonies in old buildings, cliffs, or even old tree holes, sometimes numbering hundreds of pairs.

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