Migratory bird of prey, in spring (late April – May) and mostly in autumn (mid-August – early October), individually or in groups, sometimes quite large ones (up to few hundred birds). Entirely migratory species, overwinters in sub-Saharan Africa and breeds in large parts of Europe and western Asia.

A medium sized raptor, with a rather slim and long neck, mid-length broad wings, longish tail which looks very broad when spread, like a fan.

Specialized in feeding on the larvae of hornets and wasps, by locating their nests, often by digging the ground.