Habitat:
Grasslands, steppes, agricultural areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Lesser Kestrel, or Falco naumanni, is a small diurnal raptor belonging to the Falconidae family. It is distinguished by its modest size, measuring about 30 to 35 cm in length with a wingspan of 60 to 75 cm. Its plumage is characteristic: the male has a rufous back without spots, a grey-blue head, and wings with black tips, while the female displays a duller and more speckled plumage. This falcon primarily feeds on insects but can also hunt small mammals and reptiles. It inhabits open areas such as grasslands, steppes, and agricultural zones. A migratory bird, it breeds in Europe and Central Asia and winters in sub-Saharan Africa. Its population is declining mainly due to habitat loss and pesticide use.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Lesser Kestrel, opt for early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and discreet, hiding in a blind or using a camouflage net. Pay attention to its behavior to anticipate its movements, especially during insect hunting. A tripod can be useful to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.