Common Kestrel

Falco tinnunculus

Wingspan

65–85cm

Body length

30–40cm

Weight

140–250g

Profile

Life expectancy
Clutch size: 4–5 eggs
Global status
Activity
Migration

Identification

A small falcon with pointed wings and a long tail. In the male, the grey head and tail contrast with the rufous-brown back. Females and juveniles are mainly brown and more heavily barred.

Colours

Plumage

Eyes

Legs & feet

Male

Grey head and grey tail with a dark terminal band. The rufous-brown back is spotted dark.

Behaviour

Its hovering is particularly striking: with rapid wingbeats and a fanned tail it holds its position over a hunting area. Many adults stay in Central Europe in winter or move only short distances.

Breeding & rearing

Rock niches, church towers and other niches in buildings serve as nest sites. Special nest boxes are also accepted. Besides a sheltered nest site, an accessible open hunting area is essential for feeding the young.

Diet

Prey examples

Voles

Mice

In Central Europe the Common Kestrel lives mainly on small rodents such as voles. Large insects, lizards and occasionally small birds or earthworms supplement the diet.