Wild Wednesday - Eurasian kestrel
This week the spotlight is on the Eurasian kestrel, scientific name, Falco tinnunculus, one of the UK's most recognisable birds of prey. They can be seen all year round across Arun and the wider UK.
Often seen hovering above fields, grassland and roadside verges, kestrels are famous for their ability to remain almost motionless in the air while scanning the ground for prey. Their keen eyesight allows them to spot small mammals, such as voles and mice, from impressive distances before swooping down to catch them.
Small but powerful
Kestrels are small falcons, with males easily identified by their striking grey head and tail, while females have a more mottled brown appearance. Despite their modest size, they are skilled hunters and play a key role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem by helping to control rodent populations.
A familiar sight in Arun's skies
You may spot kestrels across Arun's countryside, open spaces and coastal areas throughout the year. Keep an eye out for their distinctive hovering behaviour, often referred to as "wind-hovering", which makes them one of the easiest birds of prey to identify.
Breeding pattern
Eurasian kestrels typically begin their breeding season in spring, with courtship starting from March and egg-laying usually taking place between April and May. Rather than building their own nests, kestrels often use old crow or magpie nests, tree cavities, cliff ledges, or buildings. A female usually lays four to five eggs, which she incubates for around a month while the male provides food. Once hatched, the chicks remain in the nest for four to five weeks before fledging, although parents continue feeding them for a brief period afterwards.
Did you know?
A kestrel can see ultraviolet light, allowing it to detect the urine trails left behind by small mammals and helping it pinpoint the best hunting grounds.
If you're out enjoying Arun's green spaces this week, see if you can spot a kestrel hovering overhead!
Read more here: Kestrel | The Wildlife Trusts