© Phillip Edwards
© Olivier Langrand
© Mich Coker
© Olivier Langrand

Mauritius Kestrel Falco punctatus

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Typical kestrel with a rufous back, white underparts, a barred tail, and a dark “moustache” mark on the face. Endangered and endemic to the island of Mauritius. Originally found in areas of rainforest with cliffs and other rocky areas; now found locally in secondary habitat as well as in remnant natural habitat. Spends much of its time on the wing. Call is a high, repeated “keek.” Shares general falcon shape with migrant Eleanora’s and Sooty Falcons, but smaller, with shorter, less pointed wings.

POWERED BY MERLIN