Medium-sized raptor, feeds mainly on nests, larvae, pupae, and adults of social wasps, hornets, bumble-bees; also other insects, small animals, nestlings and eggs of birds. Monotypic, breeds in Europe except Ireland, W and N Scandinavia, N Russia and parts of Iberia and Balkan, mainly in forests with ample clearings, glades, or rides, where light soil suitable for digging. Population stable, hence status is Least Concern. Migratory; almost entirely a summer visitor to Europe. Migrate mostly using thermals also capable of crossing large water bodies using non-stop flapping flights (Vansteelant & Agostini 2021).