Friday, 18 March 2011

Kestrel

Kestrel

Description:
Quite often a familiar sight with its pointed wings and long tail, hovering beside a roadside verge. Numbers of kestrels declined in the 1970s, probably as a result of changes in farming and so it is included on the Amber List. They have adapted readily to man-made environments and can survive right in the centre of cities. Try and stop and take a photo of one and they don't usually 'hang' around for very long!

Where to be able to see a Kestrel:
Kestrels are found in a wide variety of habitats, from moor and heath, to farmland and urban areas. The only places they do not favour are dense forests, vast treeless wetlands and mountains. They are a familiar sight, hovering beside a motorway, or other main road. They can often be seen perched on a high tree branch, or on a telephone post or wire, on the look out for prey.

What they eat:
Small mammals and birds

This beautiful female kestrel was spotted by us on a fairly sunny afternoon, relatively close to the beach. It was fascinating to watch while she hovered and dived, although seemingly unsuccessful while we were there.



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