The Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is a bird of prey belonging to the falcon family Falconidae. This species is widespread in Europe, Asia and Africa. The Kestrel is relatively small compared to other predatory birds, but larger than most songbirds. Kestrels have long wings as well as a distinctive long tail. The kestrel's plumage is brown or grey with black spots, and the male has a blue-gray head and tail.Kestrels measure 34-38 cm from head to tail, with a wingspan of 70-80 cm. The average adult male weighs about 155 g, and the female weighs about 190 g.Kestrels are diurnal and prefer an "open country" habitat found in fields, heaths, and marshland. When hunting, the Kestrel hovers, almost stationary, about 10-20 m above the ground searching for prey. Once prey is sighted, the Kestrel makes a short, steep dive toward the target. They are often found hunting along the sides of roads and motorways. It has recently been shown that the Kestrel is sensitive to ultraviolet reflectance and hovering helps them pick out the urine trails of rodents which reflect ultraviolet light.
