The common kestrel is a bird of prey species belonging to the kestrel group of the falcon family Falconidae. The kestrel is the only Irish bird of prey that hovers, making it easier to spot than any other raptor. The common kestrel eats a variety of small mammals, from mice to voles. They’re even known to eat small birds, bats and insects on occasion.

In the Summer of 2021, I spent a lot of time watching and documenting juvenile Kestrels on a small cliff face in Donore, Co. Meath.

The chicks fledged the nest at four weeks old, but returned daily and called out to their mam for food - This is when I got my Images.