Swallow-tailed Kite

Overview

The swallow-tailed kite (Elanoides forficatus) is a pernine raptor and the only species in the genus Elanoides. It breeds from the southeastern United States to eastern Peru and northern Argentina, with most North and Central American breeders wintering in South America where the species is resident year-round.

Identification

• 50 to 68 cm in length with a wingspan of approximately 1.12–1.36 m.
• Contrasting deep black and white plumage; the flight feathers, tail, feet, and bill are black, while the underside of the wings is partly black and partly white.
• Elongated, forked tail measuring 27.5–37 cm, giving the bird its name.
• Usually silent, though occasionally emits a high-pitched chirp.

Habitat

Largely associated with large tracts of wetland forests, the kite nests in high trees, predominantly Loblolly pines or bald cypress. In the United States, its historic range has shrunk to coastal regions of the southeast and southwest due to habitat degradation and changes in wetland hydrology, while it remains widespread throughout Central and South America.

Diet

The swallow-tailed kite feeds on small reptiles, amphibians, large insects, small birds, small mammals including bats, and occasionally fish. It has been observed regularly consuming fruit in Central America and typically does not break flight during feeding, often drinking by skimming the water surface.

Did you know?

Migration journeys for some individuals can exceed 10,000 miles (16,000 km), as demonstrated by satellite telemetry data.