Bird Guide

Mauritius Kestrel

Falco punctatus

EndangeredEndemicVertebratesForestCavity nestMedium · 167 g

About the Mauritius Kestrel

The Mauritius kestrel is a bird of prey from the family Falconidae endemic to the forests of Mauritius, where it is restricted to the southwestern plateau's forests, cliffs, and ravines. It is the most distinct of the Indian Ocean kestrels. It colonized its island home to evolve into a distinct species probably during the Gelasian. It is the most distant living species among the western Indian Ocean kestrels.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

It can reach a size between 26 and 30.5 cm (10.2 and 12.0 in). It weighs up to 250 g (8.8 oz). Males are slightly smaller than the females. Wingspan is approximately 45 cm (18 in) and the wings are rounded, unlike those of other falcons. The lifespan is 15 years in captivity.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Mauritius Kestrel lives

Regular range

When to see the Mauritius Kestrel

Peak activity in June · a variable species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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