Scientific name: Falco rupicolus
Rock Kestrels occur naturally in southern Africa. They are quite common in Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Swaziland, Lesotho and central Mozambique. They are found in a wide range of habitats; however, seem to favor mountainous, hilly, and rocky areas.
The rock kestrel is a slender, medium sized kestrel, between 30 and 33 centimeters tall.
On the male the back is a bright chestnut color; and the plumage below is bright chestnut with black spots that contrasts with the nearly unmarked white underwings. The females have grey heads and tails, and the backs are spotted rather than barred.
They eat primarily invertebrates, but have been known to consume rodents, reptiles and birds.
