Nankeen kestrel

Also known as the Australian kestrel, the nankeen kestrel is a small falcon that grows up to 35 cm.

They are brown on top, white below and have a black tail tip. They are known for their distinctive hovering behaviour while searching for prey.

Nankeen kestrels are widely distributed across Australia and New Guinea, but only colonised Christmas Island in the 1940s.

They have a varied diet that includes insects, reptiles, rodents and small birds. They wait on a high perch, pouncing suddenly to snatch their prey from tree branches, the ground or mid-air.

Nankeen kestrels usually pair for life. They nest in coconut trees or on buildings and power pylons in settled areas.

Where to see it

This bird of prey is common in settled areas of Christmas Island and around the mining fields.