The Kestrel

David Costantini is Professor of Conservation Physiology at the Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle in Paris, France. His main research interests have focussed on the physiological mechanisms mediating life-history variation and functions in animal ecology and conservation. Giacomo Dell'Omo is President of Ornis italica, a non-profit Italian association for research and education on environmental issues. His main research interests have focussed on the behaviour, ecology, and ecotoxicology of birds. He is currently involved in projects relating to many species including kestrels as favourite.

• 1. Systematics and evolution of kestrels; 2. Feeding ecology; 3. Habitat use; 4. Breeding density and nest site selection; 5. Colourations, sexual selection and mating behavior; 6. The reproductive cycle: from egg laying to offspring care; 7. Ecological physiology and immunology; 8. Environmental toxicology; 9. Movement ecology; 10. Conservation status and population dynamics.

'… rich in material, precise and excitingly written …' Nils Weinberg, Kritische Justiz