nil 



THE KESTHIL, 



back and the lesser ^ving coverts are of a red brick colour 

 spotted witli black; the belly is reddish, and streaked with 

 black ; the feathers of the tail dark brov.-n spotted with ^vilite, 

 ■ending in a broad black border. 



The back and wings of the female are of a rust red crossed 

 with many black lines ; the head is of a light reddish brown 

 ■streaked with black ; the tail of the same colour, and termi- 

 nated, like that of the male, with a broad black border ; the 

 extremity, however, of each is pale ''^'. 



Habitation. — In its wild state the kestril falcon may be found 

 througliout Europe, preferring mountainous places, vliere there are walls 

 of rocks or ruined castles. It is a bird of passage, which departs in 

 October with the larks, and may then be seen hovering over them, or 

 pouncing at mice ; it returns in the following March. 



In the house, if taken when old, it must be kept in a wire cage ; but 

 If caught and trained when young it may be left quite at liberty, provided 

 its wings are kept clipped ; in that case it vnll neither quit the house nor 

 lodging assigned it, especially when become familiar with the dogs and cats. 



Food. — In its wild state it preys on small birds and mice, pursues 



» There are varieties in this species: that with the head grey is rare, but wb^n 

 «;uito white is still more so.— Tuanslator. 



