Falco tinnunculus is a widespread kestrel species, found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Its range spans from Great Britain
to China and as far south as South Africa. In Europe, F. tinnunculus is migratory and winters
in southern Europe and sub-saharan Africa.
However, the majority of the breeding population in Europe is non-migratory.
Common kestrels prefer open, grassy fields and farmlands, which give them sufficient open areas to hunt.
They can sometimes be found in forested areas and marshlands. Common kestrels occupy a wide range of altitudes, from sea level to almost 5000 m.
Falco tinnunculus is among the smallest of all raptors. Adults range in weight from 150 to 190 g, with females tending to be larger than males. Common kestrels have longer tails and wingspans relative to
their body size than most other falcons, which allow them to be easily distinguished from related species. Common kestrel plumage ranges from gray to brown.
The back is usually a darker color than the breast, both are covered in dark brown or black spots.
The wings are tipped in black on the dorsal side and are pale underneath.
Males often have a more bluish-gray heads and tails.
Females are more of a reddish-brown color and have
barring on the tail. In both sexes, there is a darker stripe
or spot underneath each eye.
