The greater kestrel or white-eyed kestrel is a bird of prey belonging to the falcon family Falconidae. It is one of the largest kestrels and is found in open country in southern and eastern Africa.
Region
Southern and Eastern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from Ethiopia and Somalia south through Kenya and Tanzania to Angola, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and northern South Africa. Prefers open country including semi-desert, arid savanna, short-grass plains, and lightly wooded Acacia steppe. Common along roadsides and in pastoral and agricultural mosaics where perches are available. Avoids dense forests and very humid regions but can be found around dry escarpments and rocky outcrops.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2200 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the white-eyed kestrel, adults have a striking pale iris that contrasts with the dark pupil—a rare feature among kestrels. It favors open, arid landscapes where it hunts by hovering or sallying from prominent perches like fence posts and power poles. Pairs typically reuse old stick nests of crows or other raptors, and juveniles show dark eyes that pale with age.
At Etosha National Park, Namibia
Juvenile, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hovering; capable of fast, direct dashes from perches
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs defending a hunting territory. Nests in old stick nests of corvids or other raptors on trees, pylons, or cliffs; does not build its own substantial nest. Clutch typically 2–4 eggs; both sexes participate in territory defense and prey delivery.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving sharp, repeated kek-kek or kli-kli calls near the nest or when alarmed. Also emits thin whistles and chatter during pair interactions and food exchanges.
