Threats to the Lesser kestrel have been agricultural intensification (including the use of pesticides) and urbanization in Europe, and a decline in pastoral farming in both Europe and Africa.
The Lesser kestrel has a wide range covering Africa, Europe and Asia.
Serious declines have been observed throughout its European range, with 100,000 pairs in Spain in 1950 falling to less than 5,000 in 1990.
The lesser kestrel is considered as "Vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List of endangered animals.