In mainland China, the word "kestrel" usually refers to the kestrel (scientific name: falco tinnunculus), which is a first-level protected animal in China.
First-level protected animals refer to rare and endangered wild animals that are expressly protected by national and local governments. Their hunting, capturing, killing, acquisition, sale, endangered wild animal and plant products, and illegal transportation are subject to criminal penalties. Protecting the activities of first-level protected animals is also a responsibility conferred by the law.
The kestrel is a medium-sized raptor that is widely distributed in Africa, Eurasia and North America. In China, kestrels usually breed in grasslands, farmland, mountains and dry open areas. They often hunt in vast grasslands, feeding mainly on rodents, insects and small birds. In addition, the kestrel is also one of the migratory birds on land.
China lists the kestrel as a first-level protected animal, mainly out of consideration for the protection of its species. Activities such as habitat destruction and destruction, illegal capture and illegal trade all pose threats to the survival of kestrels, so this species needs to be strictly protected to maintain biodiversity and ecological balance.
Protecting kestrels is conducive to maintaining ecological balance, protecting grassland ecosystems, and maintaining wild animal and plant resources. It is also a sign of respect and responsibility for humans towards the natural world.
