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Henry Sowell

Vol. I · Est. 2026

Pl. LXXXVI
Field-journal plate: Eurasian Kestrel
The Eurasian Kestrel plate as rendered on the e-ink frame
As rendered on the frame

The Birds · Plate LXXXVI

Eurasian Kestrel

Falco tinnunculus

Falconidae · Taxon 472766

Length32–39 cm
Wingspan65–82 cm
Weight136–314 g

Field marks

  1. Slim, small falcon with long pointed wings
  2. Long tail with a broad dark terminal band
  3. Rusty-chestnut upperparts marked with black spots or bars
  4. Buff underparts with dark streaks or spots
  5. Distinct dark malar stripe below each eye
  6. Yellow cere, eye-ring, and legs; dark hooked bill and eyes

HabitatOpen country such as grassland, farmland, heath, scrub, and marsh edges; also uses lightly wooded and built environments where elevated perches and nesting ledges overlook vegetation.

BehaviorDiurnal and usually solitary; hunts from exposed perches or by hovering over open ground, then drops steeply onto small prey.

Palette

rusty chestnutblue-graywarm buffblackish browngolden yellow