The bird-watching community knows the lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni) as an intriguing and fascinating species. This small bird of prey is often overlooked, but it has noteworthy characteristics and behavior that make it a point of interest for bird enthusiasts as well as nature lovers. In this blog post, we will dive into the lesser kestrel’s details and explore their presence in the beautiful country of Nepal.
Understanding the Lesser Kestrel
A member of the falcon family, the lesser kestrel is a small raptor with a wingspan ranging from 58 to 72 cm. Their plumage exhibits striking sexual dimorphism, with males flaunting a blue-grey head and tail while females showcase earthy brown tones across their entire body. Mostly, they inhabit open grasslands, cultivated areas, and steppe-like habitats.
The lesser kestrel's diet mainly consists of insects; however, on occasion, they will also consume small mammals and birds. Interestingly, these birds are known to be agile hunters catching their prey both mid-air and on the ground.
Migration Patterns
Lesser kestrels migrate vast distances between their breeding grounds bordering Europe (the Mediterranean region), Central Asia, Turkey, and North Africa in summer seasons. In the winter months, they move southwards to Sub-Saharan Africa. They tend to avoid thickly forested areas during migration instead favoring open as well as agricultural landscapes.
Lesser Kestrel Presence in Nepal
Nepal is not only a trekking paradise but also hosts a diverse array of wildlife species including the lesser kestrel. Specifically, in the upper Kaski district including Sikles village which lies within the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP), both male and female lesser kestrels have reportedly been spotted. The occurrence of the lesser kestrel sightings in Nepal suggests that they may use this region as a stopover during their migratory journey.
Conservation Status
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently lists the lesser kestrel as a 'Least Concern' species. However, their populations have been declining across their range due to habitat destruction and the use of insecticides. With an estimated global population of about 270,000-330,000 mature individuals, conservation efforts are vital for the future of these intriguing birds.
In conclusion, learning about the lesser kestrel is an excellent way to broaden our understanding of wildlife and Nepal's diverse fauna. By safeguarding their habitats and raising awareness, we can ensure that future generations can also appreciate the beauty and uniqueness found in bird species like the lesser kestrel.