![]() ![]() It is found only on rough, rocky cliffs in arid lands, sometimes of an unimpressive height. But it is only a cliff nester in Kenya and, unlike kestrels worldwide, in Kenya it is quite uncommon. The mountain kestrel is Kenya’s typical Kestrel, the one that most resembles the common kestrel of Eurasia. The Fox Kestrel utilizes potholes in cliff faces in the arid north of Kenya. The Greater Kestrel prefers the flat open plains and grasslands and will use the nests of Cape Rooks to breed. Other than their pale eyes (as adults) they are clearly kestrels. The large Greater Kestrel and Fox Kestrel are more powerful. The Grey Kestrel in particular, is a fast and adaptable hunter, taking mostly insects and lizards, but when required it can fly down birds, as would a Merlin. They hover and prey on mostly insects and rodents.īut Africa has some old kestrels such as the stocky Grey Kestrel and the aforesaid Dickinson's kestrel that do not fit the profile at all. The kestrels are usually defined by being small (dove sized), comparatively long tailed birds with a reddish plumage. The Dickinson's kestrel is known from a few records in Kenya, some of which are dubious. The Rock Kestrel is now separated as a species and occurs in only Southern Africa. The diminutive Merlin only just wanders into North Africa from Europe and Asia. Some falcons such as the Peregrine, Barbary and Taita Falcon are contenders for the fastest animals on Earth, reaching speeds of some 270 mph or 437 km per hour. Ranging in size from the tiny pygmy Falcon to the medium size Saker Falcon, some are powerful enough to catch large pigeons and even guinea fowl and hares.įalcons differ greatly from hawks, buzzards and eagles (fellow birds of prey) and recent DNA work places them closer to parrots! They all share long pointed wings, medium to short tails, bare legs, short bills with a tooth-like notch, round nostrils, liquid brown eyes and a neat moustachial stripe, rather like a cheetah’s tear stripe. ![]() We are home to some 12 falcons and 11 small falcons and kestrels. The fine representations of Horus in hieroglyphics, murals and sculpture show him to be a Barbary Falcon.Īfrica then, has led the world in exalting Falcons. The Egyptian Sun God Horus is the oldest venerated raptor on Earth, adopted later as a Greek God. Falconers have perfected hunting with skills that are handed down through generations, aircraft engineers have studied their flight and one falcon was even given God status. So, the next time you find yourself in the African savanna or scrubland, keep an eye out for the enchanting Pygmy Falcon – a tiny titan that truly embodies the wonder of the natural world.They may not be eagle sized but they have, from the very beginnings of civilisation, captured the imagination of man. The Pygmy Falcon serves as a remarkable reminder that even the tiniest creatures can have a profound impact on the world around them. ![]() With its striking appearance, unique habits, and fearless demeanor, this diminutive dynamo has won the hearts of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. The Pygmy Falcon may be the world’s smallest falcon, but it undoubtedly leaves a lasting impression on those who are lucky enough to observe it. To ensure the continued survival of these fascinating raptors, it is essential to support conservation efforts and maintain a healthy and diverse ecosystem. However, these tiny birds face potential threats, such as habitat loss and degradation, which can result from human encroachment and climate change. Both male and female Pygmy Falcons take turns feeding and protecting their young during this crucial period.įortunately, the Pygmy Falcon population is currently considered stable, with the species listed as “Least Concern” on the IUCN Red List. The incubation period lasts about 28 days, after which the nestlings will remain in the nest for an additional 30 days before fledging. Males provide the majority of the parental care, including incubating eggs and feeding the young.įemales lay 2-4 eggs in a chamber within their chosen sociable weaver nest. While they are generally monogamous, polyandry – a situation where a female mates with multiple males – has been observed in some instances. The Pygmy Falcon’s mating and reproductive habits are as unique as the bird itself. Love in Small Packages: Mating and Reproduction These pint-sized predators are swift and agile, often ambushing their prey with rapid strikes from the air or from a concealed perch. Their diet includes grasshoppers, crickets, beetles, mice, small lizards, and even small bird species like waxbills and weavers. Diet and Hunting: The Smallest Falcon in the SkiesĪs resourceful hunters, Pygmy Falcons primarily prey on insects, small mammals, and other birds. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |