Introduction
Small Birds of Prey UK: In the quiet valleys of Britain, an invisible drama continues to take place every day. Small predatory birds roam over the hedges and moorlands in search of their food. The main characteristics of these small predators are sharp beaks (useful in tearing the prey with the beak bent downwards), keen eyesight (useful in seeing a rat crawling on the ground even from a height), sharp claws, and silent flight (especially in the case of owls, whose wings do not make any kind of sound during flight, due to which they are able to hunt easily).
What are small predatory birds?
Small predatory birds usually weigh less than 500 grams. But their wingspan and vision are so good that even the biggest prey can’t escape.
Common small predatory birds found in the UK
Kestrel
Scientific name: Falco tinnunculus
The kestrel is a popular predatory bird of the UK. It is identified by its unique hunting method in which these birds remain stationary at one place in the air and keep looking for prey on the ground below.
Recommended equipment: [affiliate link] Lightweight and clear-vision binoculars to see a kestrel flying.
Merlin
Scientific name: Falco columbarius
The merlin is the smallest falcon of Britain, which often keeps flying at low altitudes over bushes and open land while chasing its prey. It is found in the Scottish moorlands in summer and the lower coastal areas in winter.