Kestrel

Usually found in open grasslands and fields, perched on telegraph wires or on solitary trees, on the lookout for its prey – chiefly rats and lizards, which abound in such areas.

The male is reddish-brown with brown spots all over. It has a black tipped tail and gray head, light-brown chest and abdomen parts. Female is similar with reddish-brown head.

During flight, it has an excellent ability to stop and hover in position for several seconds before swooping down and grabbing the prey in its claws.

Photograph location: Nannaj

Name	Kestrel
Alternate name(s)	Not known
Size	Large pigeon
Occurrence	Open grasslands, winter visitor to these regions
Status	Quite common
Distinct features	Gray head, reddish-brown body with brown spots and black tipped tail; chest and abdomen parts are light-brown mottled with dark-brown spots
Sexes	Alike; female with brown head