Common kestrel: incubation period, weaning age and breeding
Common kestrel eggs hatch after 27–31 days of incubation. Chicks fledge at 27–35 days and are weaned and independent at about 60 days. A typical clutch is 3–6 eggs.
Breeding numbers
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Adult weight (g) | 136-314 |
| Male weight (g) | 136-252 |
| Female weight (g) | 154-314 |
| Length (cm) | 32-39 |
| Wing chord (mm) | m 230-260, f 240-270 |
| Clutch size | 3-6 |
| Incubation (days) | 27-31 |
| Fledging (days) | 27-35 |
| Weaning / independence (days) | ~60 |
| Lifespan (years) | 10-15 |
| Breeding season | Wild: April-June (Arabia from Feb). Captive: often breeds first year; can double/triple clutch. |
| Sexing | Reverse size dimorphism: female ~1/3 heavier (falconers: falcon vs tiercel; Gulf: "tabaa" for the male peregrine, "qarmousha" or "wakri" for the male saker). Chicks and hybrids: DNA (feather/blood) is reliable; size alone overlaps between species and hybrids. Adult male: grey head and tail, female brown barred. |
| Moult | Moult in summer. |
| Quarry | Insects, mice, lizards; beginners/education bird, little real quarry. |
| Gulf heat tolerance | 4/5 - resident breeder in Arabia. |
| Temperament | Gentle, easy to handle; hovers. |
| Disease prevention | Prevention: bumblefoot (perch surfaces), frounce & herpesvirus (no wild pigeons), sour crop (don't overfeed), coccidiosis/worms (routine faecal checks), avian pox (mosquito control/vaccine). Small species chill and lose condition fast - weigh daily. Vet for treatment. |
| Identification features | Rufous back with black spots, single thin moustache, long tail with black subterminal band; male grey head and plain grey tail; female barred brown tail. |
Origin: Europe, Asia and Africa — Scientific name: Falco tinnunculus
Size: 32-39 cm, 136-314 g
Breeding and care tips
The most widespread small falcon in the Arab world, breeding in Arabia (e.g. King Salman reserve). Used for education/display more than hunting.
Description
Spotted rufous-brown back; the male has a grey head and tail; hovers.
Need the exact date? Use the egg hatch calculator and the weaning age chart.
Related species
- Gyrfalcon
- Saker falcon
- Peregrine falcon
- Barbary falcon
- Lanner falcon
- Laggar lugger falcon
- Prairie falcon
- Aplomado falcon
Frequently asked questions
How long do Common kestrel eggs take to hatch?
Common kestrel eggs hatch after 27-31 days of incubation.
How many eggs does a Common kestrel lay?
Usually 3-6 eggs per clutch.
When do Common kestrel chicks leave the nest?
Chicks fledge at about 27-35 days old.
When are Common kestrel chicks weaned?
They are weaned and independent at about ~60 days.
What is the Common kestrel breeding season?
Wild: April-June (Arabia from Feb). Captive: often breeds first year; can double/triple clutch.
How do you tell a male Common kestrel from a female?
Reverse size dimorphism: female ~1/3 heavier (falconers: falcon vs tiercel; Gulf: "tabaa" for the male peregrine, "qarmousha" or "wakri" for the male saker). Chicks and hybrids: DNA (feather/blood) is reliable; size alone overlaps between species and hybrids. Adult male: grey head and tail, female brown barred.
How long does a Common kestrel live?
About 10-15 years with good care.