The lesser kestrel is a small falcon. This species breeds from the Mediterranean across Afghanistan and Central Asia, to China and Mongolia. It is a summer migrant, wintering in Africa and Pakistan and sometimes even to India and Iraq. It is rare north of its breeding range, and declining in its European range. The genus name derives from Late Latin falx, falcis, a sickle, referencing the claws of the bird, and the species name commemorates the German naturalist Johann Friedrich Naumann.
Region
Mediterranean Basin and Central Asia
Typical Environment
Breeds across southern Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and through Central Asia to China and Mongolia. Prefers open country such as steppe, dry grasslands, cereal croplands, and lightly grazed pastures with scattered buildings or cliffs for nesting. In the non-breeding season it winters mainly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia, using savannas, fallows, and agricultural mosaics. It often forages near colonies and human settlements where insect prey is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The lesser kestrel is a small, colonial falcon that often nests in cavities of old buildings, cliffs, and bridges. It feeds largely on large insects, making it an important natural controller of agricultural pests. Once in decline in parts of Europe due to agricultural intensification, many populations are recovering thanks to nest-box programs and habitat management. Males and females differ in plumage, with males showing cleaner, less streaked upperparts than the common kestrel.
Female in flight showing whitish talons
Lesser kestrels mating
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with glides; capable of hovering
Social Behavior
Often breeds in loose to dense colonies, using cavities in buildings, walls, cliffs, or nest boxes. Pairs are monogamous in a season, and both parents feed the young. Outside breeding, they form flocks and frequently forage communally over fields.
Migratory Pattern
Seasonal migrant
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched kik-kik-kik notes, especially around colonies. Alarm calls are rapid, chattering series that carry over open ground.
