The common kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is the native raptor (bird of prey) you’re most likely to see hovering over countryside in the British Isles. Other raptors like the buzzard (Buteo buteo) can also hover, but they’re usually hanging on the wind or thermals rather than pitching their wings and tails to actively stay in single position for a prolonged period above the ground where prey might be moving around.
It was a gloomy day today so not great, bright shots, but I did catch a male kestrel diving on a vole or mouse and taking it up high on a telegraph post and then a tree to devour it before flying off with the remains of the kill in its talons.
