Nankeen Kestrel

Falco cenchroides

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This is "Ajax" a juvenile Nankeen Kestrel raised in care from a chick. 
This photo was taken on the day of his release.

other names
Sparrowhawk, Windhover or Australian Kestrel

The Nankeen Kestrel is part of the falcon family, but lacks the high speed of other falcons.  Widespread in mainland Australia, however in Tasmania it is uncommon and is a non-breeding 'visitor'.  The Kestrel prefers large open spaces, such as country fields, around cliffs, in deserts, etc, but is one of the few raptors that can be found in cities. It is quite territorial, often fighting for their territory, especially during breeding season.  The Nankeen Kestrel has quite distinctive 'teardrop' shaped black markings under it's eyes.  It is one of the few raptors that hovers in mid air when hunting for food and eats mice, insects, etc.  The Kestrel can be seen alone, in pairs or in larger groups.  The breeding period is from July to December and it nests in tree hollows or on a ledge or cavity of a cliff edge or  high rise building in the city, it also uses old nests of other raptors.  It lays between 3 and 4 eggs which are incubated for 26 to 28 days by the female only as the male hunts for food.  Young fledge in approximately 26 days.