Red-footed Falcon look-alikes

Key differences

Adult male Amur Falcons are very similar to Red-footed Falcons but have grey undertail coverts (not chestnut-red) and a white underwing lining (Red-footed has dark underwing). Females are very difficult to distinguish, often requiring close views of underwing pattern or subtle facial markings. Amur Falcons breed further east in Asia and have a different migration route, wintering in southern Africa but via India and the Arabian Sea.

Key differences

Eurasian Kestrels are generally larger and bulkier. Males have a rufous back with black spots and a grey head, contrasting with the Red-footed Falcon's uniform dark grey. Females are rufous-brown with heavy barring. Kestrels typically have dark claws, while Red-footed Falcons have pale claws. Kestrels also have a more prominent 'moustache' stripe.

Key differences

Lesser Kestrels are slightly smaller and more slender. Males have an unspotted rufous back and grey head, but lack the chestnut undertail of the Red-footed Falcon. Females are paler overall with less distinct markings. Lesser Kestrels have pale claws, like Red-footed Falcons, but their flight is often more buoyant and they lack the strong sexual dimorphism in underpart coloration of Red-footed Falcons.