The hunting style of a Kestrel most closely resembles...

The hunting style of a Kestrel most closely resembles that of a Merlin due to their similar techniques and hunting behaviors. Both species are known for their agility and speed, which they utilize to catch small birds and insects. Kestrels often employ a hunting technique known as "hovering," where they remain suspended in the air to spot prey, and they typically hunt from a perch or in open areas, which is a characteristic also seen in Merlins.

In contrast, Goshawks, Peregrine falcons, and Gyrfalcons exhibit different hunting styles. Goshawks prefer a different approach, often hunting in wooded areas and using more power and stealth to ambush their prey. Peregrine falcons are known for their high-speed dives when hunting, a method that relies on their ability to spot prey from a distance while soaring high. Gyrfalcons tend to hunt using a combination of speed and power but are also more prone to chasing larger prey. Overall, the Kestrel and the Merlin share a similar ecological niche and hunting strategies, making them comparable in their approach to hunting.