Rock Kestrel

Kransvalk · Falco rupicolus

A small russet falcon that hunts by hovering steadily on the wind before dropping onto insects, lizards and rodents in the grass below. In Kruger it favours rocky and hilly areas, and its warm chestnut back combined with a neat grey head and tail make it easy to name.

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How to identify it

Rufous-backed kestrel with a grey head and tail; richer chestnut and more uniform than the spotty Greater Kestrel.

Listen for its call

A shrill, scolding 'kik-kik-kik-kik', often near a cliff or pylon.

Where to see it in Kruger

Rocky hills, cliffs and open country, hovering over slopes and grassland looking for prey.

Did you know

It hovers perfectly still in the wind, keeping its head locked in place while its wings beat.

Often confused with

Greater Kestrel

Lesser Kestrel

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