The Lesser Kestrel needs open habitats: steppes, low scrubland, grassland and pastures. It nests in holes in buildings (e.g. under the roof). In the Crau plain, nesting boxes have been installed on the roof of sheepfolds and in piles of stones. Medium-sized, it has a wingspan of 58 to 73 cm. It is a migratory species, spending the winter in Africa south of the Sahara. It feeds primarily on insects and small mammals.

Conservation objectives

This species was brought back from the brink of extinction in France  thanks to a national conservation programme which enabled it   to reoccupy part of its former range.

Reproduction periode

March to May

Threats

> Declining food supply due to gradual loss of open habitats,

> Disturbance of nesting sites (limestone cliffs)

> Use of pesticides (poisoning of food)