Which prey are kestrels best suited to hunt?

Kestrels are small falcons known for their exceptional hunting skills, particularly when it comes to catching smaller birds. They have specialized adaptations that make them particularly proficient at hunting starlings and English sparrows. These adaptations include keen eyesight and the ability to hover in one spot while scanning the ground for prey, enabling them to spot these small, agile birds effectively.

Starlings and English sparrows are both abundant and commonly found in the habitats where kestrels thrive, making them ideal prey. Kestrels benefit from the availability of these birds as they require a reliable food source to sustain their energy levels and support their hunting strategies.

In contrast, quail, while they can be prey for some larger raptors, are typically too large for kestrels to hunt effectively. Kestrels tend to focus on smaller avian prey that they can catch with their swift movements and agile flying. Therefore, the combination of starlings and English sparrows represents the most suitable prey for kestrels, reflecting their hunting preferences and physical capabilities.