the female and young birds are slightly paler than their relative, but are so similar that call and structure are better guides than plumage. the call is a diagnostic harsh "chay-chay-chay", unlike the common kestrel's "kee-kee-kee". neither sex has dark talons as is usual in falcons; those of this species are a peculiar whitish-horn color. this, however, is only conspicuous when birds are seen at very close range, e.g. in captivity.