Kestrel illustration

Kestrel

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Description

Grey-headed with a spotted reddish-brown back, Kestrels are perhaps most distinguishable by their in-flight 'hover' in which they seem to effortlessly float by the support of the wind. They can either beat their wings rapidly or have their wings wide open and motionless when hovering, appearing to float in mid air.

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Spotting Tip

Kestrels calls are similar to that of the Sparrowhawk and the Hobby, but less piercing. Much like Sparrowhawks and Hobbies, they usually call when near a nest.