Least Concern

Medium-sized falcon measuring 32–39 cm in length with a wingspan of 65–82 cm. Males have a rufous back with black spots and a grey head, while females are browner with heavy barring.

Populations in Europe, North Africa, and temperate Asia are partially migratory, while many in India and tropical regions are resident.

Northern breeding populations migrate to southern Europe, Africa, and South Asia during winter. Resident birds remain year-round in milder climates.

Breeds mainly from April to July, depending on location. Nests in cliffs, buildings, old crow or raptor nests, and occasionally holes in trees. Clutch size usually 4–6 eggs.

Found breeding in open country, farmland, grasslands, and rocky or urban areas, often near cliffs or tall structures.

Prefers open habitats such as fields, scrublands, and grasslands, often near human settlements; hunts over open ground.

Feeds mainly on small mammals, lizards, and large insects; occasionally takes small birds and amphibians. Hunts by hovering and dropping swiftly onto prey.