INJURED KESTREL

JOINT EFFORT SAVES AN INJURED KESTREL

Photo: (I am trying to find it on the computer!)

The kestrel is one of our most common birds of prey, and is often seen hovering over farmland and at the sides of main roads. With its long tail and narrow wings, it is easy to distinguish from most other bird species. Unfortunately they can succumb to the dangers of the industrial world.

Recently a kestrel was run over on the main Letterkenny road in Newtowncunningham. After the accident the bird was taken to the local vets who gave him the all clear after a short rest. He was then given over to the ISPCA, who in turn gave him to Killian Mc Laughlin in Buncrana to nurse him back to full health. Killian is well seasoned to looking after wild creatures and with his wealth of knowledge the bird was soon ready to put back into the wild. As the bird had not flown for a while, Killian put the kestrel into a large aviary to stretch his wings. . When the wings had strengthened and was ready to go back into the wild Killian phoned the ISPCA inspector Kevin McGinley who came and took him back to where he came from. It was successful, the bird flew round a few times to get his bearings then took off into the horizon.

To help these birds thrive in the countryside it helps to know a few details of their preferred hunting grounds. This bird exploits a broad range of habitats, including farmland, heaths, moors, parks, woodland edges and even town and city centres, but when feeding requires short grass or other low vegetation. The kestrel feeds largely on small mammals, especially the short-tailed vole, and small birds such as house sparrows. Invertebrates are also very important components of the diet; earthworms taken from cereal fields are particularly important during winter. Kestrels hunt by sight, and when hovering they are able to remain still even in strong winds. Upon spotting their quarry, they plunge to the ground, seizing the prey with their talons.

Kestrels nest in holes in trees, old buildings or in the abandoned nests of other birds, especially crows. Like many wild birds, the kestrel suffered as a result of the use of pesticides. The population declined rapidly during the 1970s, possibly as a result of agricultural intensification, habitat loss and a decline in populations of small mammal prey. Although the population seems to have remained stable during the last 15 years or so, there is some evidence that a further decline has occurred since 1994. The kestrel should benefit from measures aimed at improving farmland habitats for wildlife. Prescriptions such as unsprayed field margins and leaving stubble fields unploughed during the winter should increase the populations of small mammals and birds on which kestrels feed. Set-aside fields also provide good habitats for mice and voles.Lets hope that this kestrel has a long and happy life back in the wild and we continue to improve the countryside to accommodate a vast range of wildlife.

Environmental.