Falco araeus
The Seychelles Kestrel, Falco araeus, is a captivating and diminutive raptor, endemic to the inner granite islands of the Seychelles archipelago. Averaging just 20-23 cm (8-9 in) in length with a wingspan of 40-45 cm (16-18 in) and weighing around 80-90g, it is one of the smallest kestrels globally. Its plumage is predominantly rufous-brown, heavily barred and streaked with black, particularly on the underparts, offering excellent camouflage against tree bark and rock faces. A key field mark ...
Found in a variety of habitats from coastal coconut plantations and secondary woodland to primary montane forest up to the highest peaks of Mahé (900m). It also readily adapts to human-modified landscapes including gardens and urban peripheries.
Its diet primarily consists of small reptiles, particularly skinks and geckos, supplemented by large insects (grasshoppers, beetles) and occasionally small birds or mammals. It forages by hovering or perch-hunting.
The Seychelles Kestrel is a diurnal raptor, active from dawn to dusk, often roosting in large trees or rock crevices. Its primary foraging strategy involves hovering in place at varying heights, meticulously scanning the ground below, before executing a swift, precise dive. Alternatively, it hunt...
The Seychelles Kestrel is strictly endemic to the inner granite islands of the Seychelles archipelago in the western Indian Ocean. Its breeding range encompasses islands such as Mahé, Praslin, Silhouette, La Digue, Félicité, and Frégate, where it is a resident, non-migratory species. Historically...
Endangered
- The Seychelles Kestrel is known locally as 'Katiti' in Seychellois Creole. - It is the only diurnal bird of prey endemic to the inner granitic islands of the Seychelles. - Despite its small size, it can be quite bold, often nesting close to human settlements. - Unlike many other kestrels, it fr...