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What is the kestrel habitat?
Inhabits any kind of open or semi-open situation, from forest clearings to farmland to desert, wherever it can find adequate prey and some raised perches. In breeding season, may be limited to habitats that also provide appropriate nesting sites.
Where do Kestrels live?
In Britain, where no other kestrel species commonly occurs, it is generally just called “kestrel”. This species occurs over a large range. It is widespread in Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as occasionally reaching the east coast of North America.
What is the word kestrel mean?
: any of various small chiefly Old World falcons (genus Falco) that usually hover in the air while searching for prey: such as. a : a common Eurasian falcon (F. tinnunculus)
Why do kestrels call?
Like most birds, the common kestrel uses alarm calls to defend its nest in the breeding season.
What are Kestrels known for?
kestrel, any of several small birds of prey of the genus Falco (family Falconidae) known for their habit of hovering while hunting. Kestrels prey on large insects, birds, and small mammals.
What are the characteristics of a kestrel?
Physical Description. American Kestrels are approximately the size of a jay, with the slender, pointed wings and long tail typical for falcons. They are approximately 9 inches long from beak to tail tip, and their wingspan is about 22 inches. Adults weigh an average of 4.1oz, or 117g.
Where are kestrels native to?
American Kestrels are found throughout most of North America, Central America, and South America. In their northern range, they are found in Canada and Alaska during the summer breeding season. As winter sets in, they head for warmer climes.
Is a kestrel the same as a Sparrowhawk?
Sparrowhawk (sometimes sparrow hawk) may refer to several species of small hawk in the genus Accipiter. The American kestrel (Falco sparverius), a North American falcon species, is also commonly referred to as a “sparrow hawk”.
What does the word hovers mean?
1a : to hang fluttering in the air or on the wing A hawk hovered overhead. b : to remain suspended over a place or object a hummingbird hovering over the flowers Helicopters hovered above us. 2a : to move to and fro near a place : fluctuate around a given point Unemployment hovered around 10 percent.
Is Windhover a word?
noun. A kestrel. ‘Instead it is a favorite of morning, a little brown-grey falcon, called the windhover because, hurling itself headlong into the wind, it rides on the crest of that wind. ‘
What does a kestrel eat?
Voles are by far the most important food for kestrels, although they regularly take other small mammals such as woodmice and shrews, small birds, insects and earthworms.
Is Kestrel a hawk?
Our most familiar and common falcon, the Kestrel is famous as the ‘motorway hawk’, often seen hovering over roadside verges. It is the only commonly occurring falcon in Britain that habitually hovers, although Lesser Kestrel and Red-footed Falcon in Europe also use this hunting technique.
What kind of habitat does an American kestrel live in?
American kestrels are found in a wide variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, deserts and other open to semi-open regions. They can also be found in both urban and suburban areas. A kestrel’s habitat must include perches, open space for hunting, and cavities for nesting (whether natural or man-made).
Where can I find an American kestrel falcon?
American Kestrel. Our smallest falcon, the kestrel is also the most familiar and widespread in North America. In open country it is commonly seen perched on roadside wires, or hovering low over a field on rapidly beating wings, waiting to pounce on a grasshopper.
What kind of tail does a kestrel have?
Males have a grey head and tail with a prominent black band, a gingery-brown back and a creamy underside which is speckled with black. Females are similar, but with a more uniform brown back and dark bands on the tail. Widespread. Did you know? The familiar behaviour of the kestrel gives it one of its old country names: the ‘windhover’.
Why is the Kestrel important to the Wildlife Trust?
The kestrel has the ability to keep its head still while it hovers – even in strong winds – helping it to pinpoint its prey by sight. As a charity we rely on memberships. They help us look after over 2,300 nature reserves and protect the animals that call them home. Please consider becoming a member of your local Wildlife Trust today.