Kirsty the Kestrel

I have written a few times regarding a remarkably confiding and much photographed female Kestrel at RSPB Rainham Marshes which has been named Kirsty.

I finally managed to photograph this bird during my visit to RSPB Rainham Marshes on 19th January 2022 .... see here. 

Howard Vaughan at RSPB Rainham Marshes has now posted a worrying update on this female Kestrel in which he says ....

“Evening all… Kirsty Kestrel – please read…

Over the last few months our young female Kestrel has proved herself to be somewhat curious about us humans and has become increasingly tame. She is an excellent hunter and ranges widely across the reserve but seems to specialise using us to help her hunt; hovering above us on the river wall where our foot vibrations will send hidden rodents scurrying and even sitting on the climbing frame next to a member of staff while the robot munched the brambles the other day and dropping down to catch four unlucky voles.

Although a close approach has always been possibly (and to be honest more often then not she comes to see you), today was slightly different and although she flew in and perched on the hand rail, she then allowed visitors to get ludicrously close and even stroke her. This is not in any way normal for a wild bird of prey. Robins coming to your hand may be one thing but a Kestrel…?

Having seen footage of her she looks a bit out of sorts and ruffled and once again seems to have a lazy left eye (it was her right one in November). As such I have asked someone to come in tomorrow and have a look with a view to taking her to South Essex Wildlife Hospital if he feels it necessary. He has a wealth of experience in dealing with Peregrine and Kestrels in the London area and is licensed to handle.

So, a simple request; if you see her behaving in the same way over the next couple of days please inform Reception immediately (01708899851). Admire her from a distance, walk past and do not stop for a selfie and please do not stroke her. If she gets habituated to such things future rehabilitation into the wild should she need professional care would be even more difficult.

I have removed all Kirsty images from today this evening and would kindly ask that no more are posted up until we have made sure she is ok. I am sure you understand.

Thank you in advance.”

Friends of RSPB Rainham Marshes | Evening all… Kirsty Kestrel – please read… | Facebook

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