Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus
Overview
Kestrels hover. That's the giveaway. Roadsides. Grassland. Borrowdale. Langdale. You'll see them from the car. They're declining. Used to be everywhere. Still common in the Lakes.
At a Glance
| Order | Falconiformes |
| Family | Falconidae |
| Habitat | Grassland · Roadside · Moorland edge |
| Diet | Voles, small mammals. Hovers to hunt. |
| UK population | Around 46,000 pairs. Declining. |
| Lake District | Common. Roadsides. Grassland. Moorland edge. You'll see them hovering. The valley roads. Borrowdale. Langdale. |
| Conservation | UK Amber List |
Where to See It
Everywhere. Roadsides, grassland, moorland edge. That hover. The most visible falcon.
Identification
Small falcon. Hovers. Male has grey head. Female brown. Long tail. Pointed wings.
Viewing & Photography Tips
Roadsides. Look for the hover. They're common. Don't confuse with merlin. Kestrel hovers. Merlin doesn't.
Conservation Status
UK Amber List
This species is on the UK Amber List for Birds (BoCC5), indicating moderate concern. Population monitoring and habitat management remain important for its continued recovery.
Plan your visit to the Lake District
RSPB Haweswater, Grizedale Forest, Leighton Moss. Practical guides to getting there, what to bring, and the best spots for each season.