The Kestrel
Ecology, Behaviour and Conservation of an Open-Land Predator

Provides a synthesis of prior research and novel results about the behaviour, conservation, ecology, evolution, and physiology of kestrels.

David Costantini (Author), Giacomo Dell'Omo (Author)

9781108470629, Cambridge University Press

Hardback, published 27 August 2020

222 pages, 71 b/w illus. 9 colour illus. 7 tables
25 x 17.9 x 1.5 cm, 0.58 kg

'… a fine book for a wide audience, from the falcon enthusiast to the scientist.' Stephanie Michler, Ornithologischer Beobachter

Widespread across open lands and cities of Europe, Africa, and Asia, the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is one of the most abundant and studied birds of prey. This book brings together and synthesises the results of research on kestrels for professional ornithologists and scientists that seek to consolidate a vast body of literature. It is also a reference for those readers who may not have the depth of scientific knowledge to navigate new fields of scientific enquiry. It examines many aspects of the species' biology, from the reproductive strategies to the behavioural and demographic adaptations to changes of environmental conditions. It also discusses the roles of physiology and immunology in mediating the adaptability of kestrels to the ongoing environmental changes with a particular focus on contaminants. This volume presents new and exciting avenues of research on the ecology and behaviour of the common kestrel.

1. Systematics and evolution of kestrels
2. Feeding ecology
3. Habitat use
4. Breeding density and nest site selection
5. Colourations, sexual selection and mating behavior
6. The reproductive cycle: from egg laying to offspring care
7. Ecological physiology and immunology
8. Environmental toxicology
9. Movement ecology
10. Conservation status and population dynamics.

Subject Areas: Wildlife: birds & birdwatching [WNCB], Conservation of wildlife & habitats [RNKH], Birds [ornithology PSVW6], Animal ecology [PSVS], Animal behaviour [PSVP], Animal reproduction [PSVH], Animal physiology [PSVD], Evolution [PSAJ]