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Birds

Birds

Common name Common kestrel
Scientific name Falco tinnunculus
Type Urban birds
Status Resident

Predatory bird of medium size (about 33 cm or 13 in) with morphological differences between sexes. The males have red back, with black spots, while the underparts are cream with bars and a dark mottled. The head is grey, with a marked dark moustachial stripe. Wings ending in black tips. The females look more brown and have muted colours, both in the back and in the underparts. The moustachial stripe is less visible. Long, thin and pointed wings (about 78 cm or 2.5 ft wingspan) and long tail with black end bars.

Habitats

Urban environments

Where it lives

Species not very demanding in terms of habitat, but it prefers open or cleared areas of scrubland and trees, cultivated areas, pastures and grasslands. Present also in urban areas. This bird avoids closed forests.

How it lives

Bird resident all year round in Malaga. It breeds between the end of March and the beginning of April. Very undemanding when it is time to pick a location for the nest. In cities it comes to use terraced planters or air conditioning machines. The Common Kestrel lays 4 to 6 eggs. Great ability to adapt when selecting prey. It captures rodents, lizards, small birds and large insects.

Where it can be seen in Malaga

Frequent and usual species in the province. It can be watched in almost all stages of the Great Path.

Curious facts

Something characteristic of the kestrels is that they are able to remain still in the air, moving their wings frantically, observing the ground looking for a prey. In cities they are able to capture caged birds. They take them out by introducing their thin legs through the bars of the cages.

Similar birds
Routes where it can be observed
Present
JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Wintering Summer Resident Migration
Audios