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Species identification guide
Common Kestrel
Falco tinnunculus

Habitat: Open country.
Size: About that of a pigeon.
Distribution: Widespread winter migrant to the entire country.
Identification: Rufous coloration on upperparts helps separate it from all but the rarer Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni). Look for black claws and dark moustachial stripe to tell a Common Kestrel; the Lesser has whitish claws and lacks a dark moustachial stripe.
Common Kestrel female

Common Kestrel male

Common Kestrel in flight
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