Benefits of the kestrel in agriculture

 

The kestrel is one of the most valuable birds of prey for the balance of agricultural ecosystems. Despite its small size, it plays a fundamental role in the biological control of pests, helping to reduce populations of rodents and insects that cause significant damage to crops.

 

In Spain, the most representative species are the common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) and the lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni). Both are closely linked to traditional agricultural landscapes, and their presence is an indicator of the ecosystem's good health. Encouraging their presence by installing nest boxes is an effective, economical, and sustainable strategy increasingly adopted by farmers and public administrations.

 

 

What is a kestrel?

 

The kestrel is a small diurnal bird of prey belonging to the falcon family. It is easily recognizable by its characteristic hovering flight, in which it remains suspended in the air while scanning the ground for prey. This ability allows it to precisely detect small animals even from a certain height.

 

Main characteristics

 

• Size: between 31 and 39 cm in length.
• Wingspan: approximately 70-80 cm.
• Weight: between 150 and 250 grams.
• Habitat: open areas such as cultivated fields, meadows, and steppes.
• Diet: mainly small rodents and insects.
• Behavior: territorial during the breeding season.

 

Most relevant species

 

Common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus)

It is the most widespread and adaptable species. It can be found in both rural and urban environments and uses natural or artificial cavities for nesting.

Lesser kestrel (Falco naumanni)

Smaller in size and with colonial behavior, this species is listed as being of conservation interest in Spain. Its presence is closely linked to traditional agricultural landscapes.

The kestrel's role in biological pest control

Rodent control

 

One of the main benefits of the kestrel is its ability to regulate populations of small mammals, especially:

• Volves
• Field mice
• Shrews

These animals can cause serious damage to crops by feeding on seeds, roots, and shoots. A single pair of kestrels can catch hundreds or even thousands of rodents per year, significantly reducing the need for rodenticides.

 

Insect control

 

In addition to rodents, kestrels also consume large insects, especially at certain times of the year or in the case of the lesser kestrel. Their prey includes:

• Grasshoppers
• Beetles
• Crickets
• Caterpillars

By feeding on these insects, it helps maintain ecological balance and reduces pest pressure on crops.

 

 

 

Direct benefits for farmers

 

1. Reduction in the use of rodenticides and pesticides

 

Natural pest control allows for reduced dependence on chemical products, lowering costs and preventing soil and water contamination.

2. Improvement of agricultural productivity

 

By reducing damage caused by rodents and insects, crops develop better, leading to higher production and quality.

3. Economic savings

 

The installation of nest boxes represents a low initial investment compared to the recurring costs of phytosanitary treatments and rodenticides.

 

4. More sustainable agriculture

 

Promoting natural predators contributes to the creation of balanced and resilient agroecosystems against future pests.

5. Compliance with environmental regulations

 

The use of biological control strategies aligns with European sustainability policies and can facilitate access to organic certifications and subsidies.

 

Benefits for biodiversity

 

Conservation of protected species

 

The lesser kestrel is listed as a species of conservation interest. The installation of nest boxes directly contributes to its recovery and maintenance.

Indicator of ecosystem health

 

The presence of kestrels indicates a balanced agricultural environment with food availability and low chemical contamination.

Promotion of functional biodiversity

 

Kestrels are part of the food web, and their presence promotes balance among the different species in the ecosystem.

 

 

How to attract kestrels to agricultural environments

 

 

Installation of nest boxes

 

Kestrel nest boxes are the most effective tool to encourage their presence in areas where natural nesting sites, such as old buildings or trees with cavities, are scarce.

Recommended location

 

To maximize the probability of occupation:

• Height: between 4 and 10 meters.
• Orientation: preferably east or southeast.
• Environment: open areas with abundant prey.
• Support: robust buildings, posts, or trees.
• Tranquility: avoid areas with high human disturbance.

Installation of several boxes

 

In the case of the lesser kestrel, which nests in colonies, placing several nest boxes significantly increases the chances of occupation.

 

 

Examples of application in agriculture

Cereal crops

 

The kestrel is especially effective in controlling voles, which are responsible for significant economic losses in this type of crop.

Vineyards and fruit trees

 

Its presence reduces the incidence of rodents that damage roots and fruits, improving production quality.

Traditional agricultural landscapes

 

In environments with mosaics of crops and field edges, the kestrel finds an ideal habitat for its development.

 

Myths and realities about the kestrel

 

Can it attack poultry?

 

It is not common. Its diet is mainly based on small rodents and insects, so it does not pose a significant threat to domestic birds.

Is it difficult to attract them?

 

No, as long as suitable nest boxes are installed in favorable environments with sufficient food availability.

Do nest boxes require maintenance?

 

Yes, an annual review and cleaning outside the breeding season are recommended to ensure their proper functioning and durability.

 

Conclusion

 

The kestrel is an essential ally for more sustainable and profitable agriculture. Its ability to naturally control rodent and insect populations makes it an effective tool within biological pest control strategies.

 

Promoting its presence through the installation of nest boxes not only benefits farmers but also contributes to the conservation of these valuable species and the balance of ecosystems.

 

 

Bet on natural and sustainable solutions. Discover our nest boxes for small raptors and contribute to the ecological balance of your environment.