Mauritius kestrel

The Mauritius kestrel (Falco punctatus) is a bird of prey from the family Falconidae endemic to the forests of Mauritius, where it is restricted to the southwestern plateau's forests, cliffs, and ravines.It is the most distinct of the Indian Ocean kestrels. 


It can reach a size between 26 and 30.5 cm. The weight is up to 250 grams. The males are slightly smaller than the females. Wingspan is approximately 45 cm and wings are rounded, unlike those of other falcons. The lifespan is approximately 15 years . The Mauritius kestrel hunts by means of short, swift flights through forests. Like all birds of prey, the Mauritius kestrel is carnivorous 

This bird nearly became extinct due to destruction of its natural habitat and cyclones. The recorded population dropped to an all-time low of only 4 individuals in 1974, but successful breeding programs have brought the population to 1000.