26-1-2019 ALBUFERA, VALENCIA - EURASIAN KESTREL (Falco tinnunculus)

Kestrels are a familiar sight, with their pointed wings and long tail, hovering beside a roadside verge. Numbers of Kestrels have declined since the 1970s, probably as a result of changes in farming, and so it is included on the Amber List. They have adapted readily to man-made environments and can survive right in the centre of cities.

Sadly, Kestrels declined by 37% between 1995 and 2023 and now feature on the Amber List of Birds of Conservation Concern. The exact causes of this decline are still unclear, but could include what’s known as ‘secondary poisoning’ where Kestrels become sick or die from eating poisoned prey. Changes to the way land is farmed might also be a factor.

Kestrels are an RSPB Priority Species and we’re carrying out research to get to the bottom of their decline, so that we can better understand how to help them. We also work with farmers to help them create ideal habitat for these birds.