The spotted kestrel is also known as the Moluccan kestrel.
Region
Wallacea, Eastern Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found across the Maluku Islands in a variety of open and semi-open habitats. It frequents grasslands, scrub, coconut groves, agricultural fields, and forest edges, often near human settlements. The species also hunts along coastal plains and lightly wooded hillsides. It uses perches such as fence posts and utility wires as vantage points.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Moluccan kestrel, this small falcon is native to Indonesia’s Maluku Islands. It hunts by hovering into the wind and striking quickly on insects, lizards, and small vertebrates. The “spotted” name refers to its heavily speckled underparts. It adapts well to mosaic landscapes, including plantations and village edges.
A spotted kestrel in flight
Temperament
alert and moderately territorial
Flight Pattern
frequent hovering with rapid wingbeats, short glides, agile and direct flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Likely monogamous, nesting in tree cavities, cliff ledges, or old nests of other birds without adding much nest material. Pairs defend a small territory around nest and favored hunting grounds.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched kik-kik-kik notes, often given in rapid series. Alarm and territorial calls are louder and more insistent. Vocalizations carry well over open habitats.
