White-tailed Kite Identification

Adult

Small hawk with narrow, pointed wings and long tail. Adults in flight are white below with black primaries and a dark spot on the "wrists."

Adult

Characteristic hunting behavior involves turning into wind and flapping in order to hover in place while scanning the ground.

Adult

Juvenile

Juveniles have a cinnamon wash on the breast and crown. Like adults they have a white face and dark shoulders.

Adult

Note dark patch on shoulder, dark eyes, and white underparts.

Juvenile

Hovers or "kites" above the ground watching for prey. Once located it dives straight down, grabbing prey (usually small mammals) with its talons.

Juvenile

Juveniles have a mottled brown back and a cinnamon wash on the breast and crown. Note dark shoulder and white face.

Adult

Perches on exposed branches with a good view of the surroundings. Note white underparts and head.

Adult

During the nonbreeding season often roosts with other White-tailed Kites.

Habitat

Found in savanna, open woodlands, marshes, desert grasslands, partially cleared lands, and cultivated fields.