We used to live in a glen where kestrels nested every year.

While the birds were nesting they were secretive, though occasionally we saw one of the adult birds hunting for food for hungry chicks.

Once the youngsters fledged the family was much more visible. We’d see them strung out along the valley, all hovering, eyes glued to the ground. It was like they had survival lessons every day.

There won’t be any family lessons for the young kestrel we have in care.

She was found on the ground, much too young to be out of the nest, and still with lots of baby down. The people who found her searched for a nest, but had no luck and reluctantly brought their young bird into care.

The chick was in good condition and adult feathers were peeping through her down. She was feisty, and to our relief by the end of the day she was tearing up food for herself.

We half hoped another kestrel would come into care. It is best for young birds to be reared with another of their kind. That way they learn behaviour and know what they look like.

Our kestrel has been exercising in an aviary for the past few weeks, strengthening flight muscles and becoming accustomed to the sights and sounds around her in the wood.

After release we will leave food out for her. That will support her on days when she doesn’t catch enough food on her own.