Falcons are fast-flying birds of prey. They use speed to chase and catch victims, twisting and turning with amazing aerobatic skill. Large falcons hunt mainly other birds, up to the size of pigeons and partridges. Some of these big and powerful falcons, like the peregrine and saker, are almost the equal of eagles. They swoop and thud their talons into the victim in mid air, in a blur of features and blood. Smaller falcons tend to prey on little songbirds and also on large flying insects such as dragonflies, butterflies and beetles. Kestrels hunt by hovering into the wind, head perfectly still and staring at the ground, before diving to pounce on their prey.