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.
A familiar sight with its pointed wings and long tail, hovering beside a roadside verge.
Discover more about the Kestrel
When to see
Kestrels can be seen all year round in a variety of habitats.
Where to see
The kestrel one of our best known bird of prey. Kestrels are a little smaller than a pigeon and can be found in all kinds of habitats from open countryside to towns and villages.
They tend to hunt in open spaces with long grass as this is prime field-vole habitat. The birds rarely venture far into woodland, but will nest and hunt along wood edges.
Did you know?
Kestrels need to eat several voles per day to survive. They have been known to rob Barn Owls of their meals.
When to see
Kestrels can be seen all year round in a variety of habitats.
Where to see
The kestrel one of our best known bird of prey. Kestrels are a little smaller than a pigeon and can be found in all kinds of habitats from open countryside to towns and villages.
They tend to hunt in open spaces with long grass as this is prime field-vole habitat. The birds rarely venture far into woodland, but will nest and hunt along wood edges.
Did you know?
Kestrels need to eat several voles per day to survive. They have been known to rob Barn Owls of their meals.
When to see
Kestrels can be seen all year round in a variety of habitats.
Where to see
The kestrel one of our best known bird of prey. Kestrels are a little smaller than a pigeon and can be found in all kinds of habitats from open countryside to towns and villages.
They tend to hunt in open spaces with long grass as this is prime field-vole habitat. The birds rarely venture far into woodland, but will nest and hunt along wood edges.
Did you know?
Kestrels need to eat several voles per day to survive. They have been known to rob Barn Owls of their meals.
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OTHER WILDLIFE SPECIES
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Registered Company No: 303299 | Registered address: Wild Scotland, Suite 212, 8 Church Street, Inverness IV1 1EA