Lesser Kestrel: where and when to see them

The lesser kestrel is a small, sociable falcon associated with open farmland, dry grasslands and settlements offering nest cavities. Many European and western Asian birds migrate to sub-Saharan Africa after breeding. Adult males combine a grey head with a warm, largely unspotted back, whereas females are heavily patterned. Although globally assessed as Least Concern, it has suffered serious regional declines where traditional farming landscapes and nesting opportunities have disappeared.

Size

27-33 cm long

Weight

90-200 g

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Unlike many falcons, lesser kestrels often nest colonially and forage in loose groups. They hover, circle low over fields or hunt from perches, frequently dropping to the ground for insects. Pairs occupy holes in buildings, cliffs or other structures without constructing a substantial nest. Outside breeding, birds can gather at large communal roosts, and migration may bring concentrated flocks through suitable feeding landscapes. Pairs often reuse the same nest site year after year if successful. Roosting flocks can number in the hundreds or even thousands, particularly during migration, offering impressive spectacles at dawn and dusk.

• Its pale claws contrast with the common kestrel's dark claws.
• Pairs normally use an existing cavity rather than building a nest.
• Large insects can supply most of its food.
• Nonbreeding birds may assemble in communal roosts numbering thousands.

April to July is a useful period for searching breeding landscapes in Croatia and Turkey, with spring arrival and late-summer departure varying by locality. Warm days encourage insect activity, but early morning often provides more comfortable viewing and clearer distant views. The spring migration across the Mediterranean can offer spectacular views of large flocks as they funnel through suitable stopover sites. During the breeding season, active nests with adults bringing food to young are a reliable sign of their presence.

Open, relatively dry country with short vegetation is favoured, especially grassland, grazed pasture and low-intensity farmland. Nesting requires cavities in cliffs, old buildings or suitable artificial structures. Dense forest and heavily intensified agricultural areas generally offer poorer feeding conditions. They are typically found in low-lying or hilly areas, generally avoiding dense forests and high mountain ranges. Their preference for arid or semi-arid environments reflects their prey base and foraging strategy.

Large insects dominate, including grasshoppers, crickets and beetles. Small mammals, lizards and other small vertebrates are taken when available, particularly during breeding. The balance of prey shifts with local abundance, vegetation structure and the seasonal emergence of large insects. Prey is usually consumed on the ground, but larger items may be carried to a perch. During periods of abundant prey, Lesser Kestrels may cache food items for later consumption.

Common name

Lesser Kestrel

Scientific name

Falco naumanni

Animal group

Birds

Size

27-33 cm long

Weight

90-200 g

Lifespan

Not reliably established

Status

Least Concern

Identification

Adult males have an unspotted chestnut back and grey wing panel, while pale claws help distinguish both sexes from the similar common kestrel. Juveniles resemble females but generally appear duller, with more streaking on the breast and less distinct barring on the tail. In flight, their relatively long wings and buoyant, agile movements are characteristic.