Breeding ecology of the Common Kestrel Falco tinnunculus in the urban environment of the Blida region, Algeria

The Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), a diurnal bird of prey, is highly adaptable to urban environments. However, knowledge of its breeding ecology in Algeria is limited and focused on few localities. This study specifically examines Common Kestrel breeding in the urban environment of Blida (36°28'00'' N, 2°49'00'' E) over a five-year period, from 2019 to 2023. The results reveal that kestrel pairs adapt well and occupy a variety of nest types. The average area where a pair hunts and breeds is 1.99 ± 1.58 km². Clutch size varies between 2 and 6 eggs, with an average of 4.3 ± 1.5 eggs. Incubation lasts an average of 26 to 29 days (approx. 27.7 ± 1.3 days). The young leave the nest between 27 and 32 days after hatching (29.11 ± 1.91 days). Nevertheless, these falcons face competition from other birds and are impacted by human activities, notably the theft of eggs and chicks. In conclusion, this study highlights the Common kestrel’s adaptation to the urban environment, while underlining the challenges posed by anthropogenic pressure. Keywords: Blida; Algeria; breeding ecology; breeding success; Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus); eggs; nests; urban environment