Kestrel
Kestrel
The most common view of a Kestrel is of a hovering bird, seen in silhouette from a car. This is an attractive falcon; the female is russet brown with black bands across the wings and upper parts and has a dark tail, whilst the male has an ash-grey head.
Kestrels take readily to nest boxes, which need to be sited at least five metres from the ground with a clear flight-path for entry and exit. Kestrels nest in urban areas, as well as the open countryside. In towns, boxes can be attached to the sides of buildings.
Kestrel young
Kestrel eggs
Nesting Information
- Large nest box with open front.
- Height At least 5m above ground with clear flight path to entrance
- No nest is made but prey remains and pellets accumulate over the years.
- Egg-laying starts between early April and early July. One brood.
- 4-5 eggs. White with lots of reddish-brown speckling
- Incubation 27-29 days
- Nestlings fledge after 28-30 days.
More facts about this species
For more information about Kestrels, see the BTO’s BirdFacts and Wider Countryside Report.
