Windhover

A 'windhover' refers specifically to a kestrel, a small falcon known for its unique hunting behavior. It is the subject of Gerard Manley Hopkins' famous poem, "The Windhover." The bird is characterized by its ability to remain almost motionless in mid-air, hovering into the wind to spot prey below. This hovering flight, a display of exceptional aerial control and grace, gives the bird its name. While the term can be used more broadly to describe any hovering bird, the strong literary association with Hopkins' poem, and the visual imagery it evokes, solidifies its primary association with the kestrel. Windhovers symbolize freedom, agility, and a connection to the natural world, often inspiring a sense of awe and wonder in observers. They represent the perfect harmony of skill and environment, a testament to nature's power and beauty.

Windhover meaning with examples

• The farmer paused, gazing at the windhover suspended above the field, a tiny silhouette against the vast blue canvas, carefully watching for any movement in the tall grass.
• In Hopkins' poem, the windhover's effortless dance in the sky represents a moment of sublime beauty, capturing the essence of nature's majesty and inspiring deep contemplation in the narrator.
• The wildlife photographer spent hours observing the windhover, documenting its precise movements as it maneuvered in the strong gusts of air, revealing the animal's predatory habits.
• The conservation group worked to protect the windhover's habitat, recognizing the bird's role in the ecosystem and advocating for the preservation of open spaces.