Best time to see: late Apr to mid Sep
Key facts
Dark falcon often seen hunting insects and birds over water, looking like a huge swift
Habitat: heaths, fields and hedges
Uncommon summer visitor, wintering in southern and central Africa
Recognition
Dark upperparts pale streaked below, distinctive red trousers; dark head with white collar; 32 cm
Hawks for insects over water causing panic amongst swallows and martins
Eats small birds such as young swallows and large insects such as dragonflies
Lifecycle
Arrive from Africa late April, leaving again in September
Pair circle together in long, soaring courtship flights
Nest in old crow's nest or squirrel's drey in a tree; one brood May–June of 2–3 yellowish eggs speckled reddish
© Robin Chittenden
© Robin Chittenden