Grillaio in Matera

The Lesser Kestrel is such a disappointing English name for such a fantastic bird. The Italians call them Grillaio, after their main food, Grilli, or Crickets. In Matera they have arrived back from Africa and are everywhere on the rooftops:

They nest communally, perch on the buildings in the ancient city, and hunt for grasshoppers and mice:

This one has landed one-footed on the weather vane, still clutching its prey, and is struggling to keep its balance:

What a thrill to be surrounded by such wonderful birds.