The hunting style of a Kestrel most closely resembles ...

The hunting style of a Kestrel most closely resembles that of a Merlin due to their similar techniques and prey preferences. Both are small falcons that utilize a strategy known as "hunts by hovering," where they can remain suspended in the air, scanning the ground for potential prey. This unique method allows them to spot small mammals or insects, such as voles or grasshoppers, while maintaining a precise control over their position in the air.

Furthermore, both Kestrels and Merlins tend to target small to medium-sized birds and employ quick, agile flight to chase down their quarry. Their hunting techniques emphasize agility and speed rather than the more powerful, stooping dive method used by larger birds of prey like the Goshawk or the Peregrine falcon. Understanding these specifics helps in appreciating how Kestrels and Merlins share hunting strategies suited to their physical capabilities and environmental conditions.