Best time to see: all year
Key facts
The smallest British raptor, little bigger than a blackbird, catching its prey by surprise then aerial pursuit
Resident in Britainn, nesting near open areas with plenty of small birds, such as moors or large marshes
In Essex most often seen in winter, hunting over coastal marshes
Recognition
Compact with broad, short wings; m. blue-grey above, rusty below, 25 cm; f. dark brown above, patterned below, 30 cm
Flies fast and low over ground, hoping to surprise its prey, then follows in twisting pursuit
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© Alan Williams