Endangered falcon named number one bird
A conservation organisation has named the endangered European kestrel Bird of the Year.
The Swiss Association for the Protection of Birds, BirdLife, said the kestrel – a type of a falcon – is threatened by food shortages and disappearing habitats.
It is calling for financial support from the authorities to provide more places where the birds can nest. It says that new structures do not attract the birds as they lack the nooks found in old buildings. Another problem is the shortage of nesting boxes at higher altitudes.
The bird is known for its unique flying abilities. In a slight headwind, the falcon is able to hover in one place while it searches for small mammals, amphibians and reptiles, its usual fare.
The group says the birds can coexist well with humans, providing the proper nesting spots are in place.
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