Loch Lomond Birds of Prey

The silhouette of a hovering Kestrel is a common sight. This hovering habit is the easiest way to identify a Kestrel since it is the only small British bird of prey which does so. Its long, pointed wings indicate that it is a falcon and not a hawk, no other British falcon has such a long tail. The male Kestrel is distinguished from the female, by the blue-grey colouration of the head and tail.

The most common and widespread raptor in Britain, can be seen virtually anywhere. Frequently seen, for instance, hovering over motorway verges. In terms of distribution the Kestrel is one of the most successful falcons, there being a variety of Kestrel present throughout all parts the world. Can be found in open woodland, parks, farmland, moorland and towns.

The Kestrel's main prey is the field vole, kestrels are able to see well into the ultra-violet spectrum. This enables them to track voles through grass very easily, as voles mark their trail with urine. This reflects ultra-violet light, sending out a beacon to the Kestrels which they follow, commonly finding a vole or nesting sight at the end of it.