All information about the kestrel

What does a kestrel look like?

The kestrel is one of the smallest birds of prey. They have a wingspan of 65 cm to a maximum of 80 cm. Females are generally larger than males. Kestrels have fairly long wings and a long tail compared to their bodies. The male kestrel can be recognized by its gray head and long tail. The female can be recognized by her browner color. The tail of the female has a slightly more brownish-gray color and is clearly less bright than the color of the male.

Where does the kestrel live?

The kestrel can easily adapt itself, which is why this bird is found in a variety of places in Europe, Asia and Africa. Its habitat ranges from dunes, forests, fields, farmland and even very occasionally in the city. It prefers semi-open land, where there are many mice. Such as near dikes and roadside verges.

The kestrel can also be seen in the Netherlands. Will you come take a look with us?

How does a kestrel reproduce?

Kestrels are sedentary birds. That means they don't migrate to warmer areas in the winter. They live and breed in the same area all year round. Kestrels make their nest on ledges, in buildings, in trees or they use an abandoned nest of another bird species.

A male and female form a permanent pair for several years (and sometimes their entire lives). During the breeding season, the male provides food while the female sits on the eggs. Three to seven eggs are usually laid. The incubation period is between 26 and 34 days.

When the young hatch, they remain in the nest for about a month. They are then fed by both the father and the mother.

How does a kestrel hunt?

A hunting kestrel is known for "praying. When the kestrel prays, it hangs still in the air and looks down in search of prey. When the bird of prey spots prey, it makes a high-speed dive downward. Just above the ground, the bird spreads its wings and tail, then grabs its prey with its sharp talons.

Curious about all the birds of prey? Ranger Brent gives you a unique behind-the-scenes look at the birds of prey safari!

What does a kestrel eat?

A kestrel primarily hunts small mammals such as (vole) mice, but also smaller bird species such as young meadow birds. If there are no mice in its habitat, the kestrel also hunts larger insects such as grasshoppers and beetles or, for example, frogs and snakes.

Is the kestrel protected?

The kestrel is a protected bird species in the Netherlands. Populations in the Netherlands have declined sharply. This is mainly due to the increase in agriculture, which has resulted in fewer and fewer field mice.

Conservation

Fortunately, the status of the kestrel is still safe. But unfortunately, many of the species you see in our park are endangered and struggling in their native habitats. Did you know that worldwide more than 4000 animal species are threatened with extinction are endangered? Together we can help them, with big, or small steps. Want to know how? Then click here.