Despite the fact that kestrels have declined in Britain in the last few years, they are still the commonest bird of prey in Europe. Their habit of hovering, particularly near motorways, mean that they are also one of the easiest to spot.

Statistics
Body length: 32-39cm, Wingspan: 65-82cm, Weight: 0.13-0.3kg.

Physical description
They have long, pointed wings and a long tail. Both sexes are the same size and have brown upper-parts and creamy under-parts, but the male also has a blue/grey head and tail. They are covered with black speckles and have a barred tail.

Distribution
Kestrels range over Europe, Africa and Asia.

Habitat
Their preferred habitat is open country, plains and cultivated land.

Diet
Kestrels mainly hunt small mammals, particularly voles, but they also feed on small birds, reptiles and insects.

Behaviour
These birds are commonly seen hovering about 10-50m (30-50ft) above the ground, searching for prey.

Reproduction
Kestrels nest on a ledge, in a tree hole or in a disused nest. The clutch of 3-6 eggs is incubated by the female, and the chicks hatch after 27-31 days. The egg-laying date varies according to the geographical location. In Europe and Asia it is typically April to May, but in Africa, it can vary from August to December.

Conservation status
Kestrels are not considered to be globally threatened and are the commonest bird of prey in Europe. British populations have fallen in recent years.

Voice
They emit a high-pitched kee-kee-kee call