Is the Kestrel the only UK bird that %26#039;hovers%26#039;?

Best Answer

The only true hoverer in Britain is the kestrel. Other birds can hover briefly, like the kingfisher, the buzzard and others but that is generally a use of updraughts or prevailing wind. The kestrel hovers in all conditions by using its plumage and muscles. it can maintain a hover for a loooong time!

Asker's Rating:

Cheers for the detailed answer. I have thought this to be the case for a long time but have recently been challengedby others who feel that they know better and a wife who claims to have seen a humming bird in the south of England. Thanks again. James

Other Answers (4)

• No, a Kingfisher also hovers
• Buzzards will sometimes hover into a strongish wind.
• Don%26#039;t they have hummingbirds in the UK?
• no my bird always hovers when my credit cards are out