Kestrels in Britain
Where have all the kestrels gone?
Massive decline in numbers could be due to intensive farming reducing their prey. The latest Breeding Bird Survey (BBS) records a 20% drop in the kestrel population between 1995 and 2008, and a further fall of 36% between 2008 and 2009.
Kestrel population down by a third
One of the UK’s most familiar birds of prey, the kestrel, has drastically declined in numbers, a survey of British birds reveals today. The latest Breeding Birds Survey shows that the number of kestrels, which are often seen hovering over roads looking for small rodents, plunged by 36 per cent between 2008 and 2009.
A familiar sight with its pointed wings and long tail, hovering beside a roadside verge. Kestrels have been recently declining as a result of habitat degradation due to continuing intensive management of farmland and so it is included on the Amber List.
The Raptor Foundation – Kestrel
Like many of birds of prey, the Kestrel was virtually eliminated in parts of Britain, particularly by gamekeepers during the 19th century. It is now the most common bird of prey in the country, with an estimated population of around 50,000-70,000 pairs – exceeding the sum population of all other UK diurnal raptors. Over the 5 year period from 1995 to 2000, the UK population has decreased by about 30%, the reason hasn’t yet been identified
BBC – Wildlife Finder – Kestrel
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