Little kestrel conquers Löcknitz Castle - rescue operation for young bird!

Little kestrel conquers Löcknitz Castle - rescue operation for young bird!

In Löcknitz, a young kestrel is causing a stir. This small bird of prey, currently unable to fly, was found on the entrance steps of the castle tower after being thrown from its nest, presumably due to a storm. The tourist information office staff were worried about the vulnerable bird and put it in a box as a precaution to protect it from further dangers, such as Northern Courier reported.

The young kestrel, whose parents continue to provide it with food on the ground, originally came from a breeding site in the masonry of the old castle tower. Mayor Detlef Ebert (CDU) has confirmed the most important measures to save the bird. At the suggestion of the nature conservation organization, represented by Dieter Lückert from the Sielmann Nature Ranger Group, the falcon was released again to take care of its parents. There are also alternative options available: If the bird has problems in the coming days, you could either put it back in the nest or take it to the Storchenhof Papendorf.

The occurrence of the kestrel

The kestrel (Falco tinnunculus) is the most common falcon species in Central Europe and the second most common native bird of prey, just after the common buzzard. This species of bird prefers to nest on old, tall buildings and is known for its typical “rocking flight” in which it stands in the air and looks for prey. Kestrels are around 31 to 37 cm tall and weigh around 200 g, with females being larger and heavier than males, which stand out for their colorful plumage features.

Typical of the kestrel is reddish-brown plumage with dark spots and a distinctive facial expression with a dark streak of whiskers and yellow circles under the eyes. This elegant bird species is not only a master of the air, but also a skilled hunting companion, mainly hunting voles and field mice. Around 50,000 pairs of kestrels breed in Germany every year, which means they play an important role in the ecological balance of their habitats Plantura and Bird wonderland note.

The nesting behavior and protection of the kestrel

The nesting season for kestrels extends from April to May, during which time hunting behavior increases significantly to provide for the young. Demands on farmers regarding nature-friendly management are just as important as the provision of suitable nesting boxes. Particularly wide nesting boxes should help encourage the return and settlement of these wonderful birds.

It remains to be hoped that the little kestrel in Löcknitz will quickly become able to fly again and can continue its avian life in the castle tower. The close proximity to the residents of the castle and the lemurs from further up offer valuable support as long as the population gives it the necessary peace and space to thrive.

Visitors are asked not to disturb or chase the commander of the air so that he can enlist the help of his parents in peace. So it remains to be hoped that he will soon be able to roam the skies over Löcknitz again.