The nankeen kestrel, also known as the Australian kestrel, is a raptor native to Australia and New Guinea. It is one of the smallest falcons, and unlike many, does not rely on speed to catch its prey. Instead, it simply perches in an exposed position, but it also has a distinctive technique of hovering over crop and grasslands.
Region
Australasia
Typical Environment
Occurs across most of Australia, Tasmania, and parts of New Guinea, favoring open habitats such as grasslands, rangelands, farmland, coastal dunes, and urban fringes. It avoids dense forests and closed woodland but is common along roadsides, airfields, and croplands. The species adapts well to human-modified landscapes, often nesting in buildings or using nest boxes. Vagrants occasionally reach nearby islands.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The nankeen kestrel, also called the Australian kestrel, is one of the smallest falcons in Australasia and is famous for its effortless hovering or ‘kiting’ over open country. Unlike many falcons, it often hunts by suspending in place on the wind and dropping onto prey. It readily uses human structures such as fence posts and buildings for perching and nesting. Females are larger and generally more heavily barred than males.
With kill in beak, Botany Bay, Sydney
Juvenile nankeen kestrel, Carnarvon, Western Australia
About to pounce
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hovering; agile, buoyant flight
Social Behavior
Typically found alone or in pairs, forming monogamous bonds during the breeding season. Nests in tree hollows, cliff ledges, buildings, or old corvid nests rather than constructing its own. The female mostly incubates while the male provides food; both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched kik-kik-kik or kee-kee-kee, given in rapid series, especially during territory defense or courtship. Also emits softer chattering and whines around the nest.
