Species profile
About this species
The Lesser Kestrel is a small migratory falcon found across southern Europe, central Asia & Africa. It closely resembles the Common Kestrel but is slightly smaller, with the male displaying unspotted chestnut upperparts & blue-grey wing patches. It is a colonial nester, often breeding in old buildings, cliffs & ruins, & feeds primarily on insects caught in flight.
Open grasslands, steppes, cultivated farmland & semi-arid plains. Breeds colonially in old stone buildings, ruins, cliff faces & traditional farmhouses across southern Europe & central Asia.
Where to photograph
Where our trips feature this species
You can photograph Lesser Kestrel with us in Spain.
These departures are part of our Europe programme.
In the field, Ian Roberts helps guests make the most of these encounters.
Field notes
Photography notes
Late spring to early summer (May to June) during the breeding season, when birds are most active around colonies. Early morning hours provide the best light & peak activity.
Photograph near known colony sites where birds return regularly to roost & nest, allowing you to anticipate flight paths & pre-focus your lens. Use a fast shutter speed of at least 1/2000s to freeze the birds mid-flight as they hover & dive for insects. Early morning light at colony sites provides warm, directional light & the birds tend to be most active, giving excellent opportunities for in-flight & perched shots.
Available holidays
Trips featuring Lesser Kestrel
The holidays below are pulled from the same species relationship, so the guide stays tied to live departures rather than becoming a static article.