lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni)
Description
Male has gray head plumage, a yellow ring around the nostrils and a reddish-brown back. The female back is brown with dark brown-black spots. The underbelly is a light cream color. Feet are yellow to orange in color and have no feathers on them. Wings of both male and female are whitish with a black tip
Measurements
30-36 centimeters long
Geographic Range
Europe and northern Asia.
Habitat
Mainly farmlands. Nests in spaces created in trees; roof edges, abandoned buildings, discarded boxes; mountain slopes; deep ravines. Lesser kestrels need to live near open area where they can hunt
Diet
Insects, grasshoppers, rodents, lizards, frogs, and sometimes small birds.
Behavior
Migrates south during the winter and north for breeding and nesting.
Reproduction
Females lay 4-6 eggs between March and May and incubate them for 28-31 days. When the chicks hatch the female invests more time caring for them while the male defends and protects the nest and its surroundings. The last chick to hatch is the smallest and will have to fight harder for the food brought in by the busy parents. 2-3 weeks after hatching the chicks need to learn how to get their own food, as the parents stop feeding them
Threats
 hunters  tree clearing
Risk Status
Vulnerable |
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