Gray-headed Kite
NameGray-headed Kite
Common NameGray-headed Kite
Scientific NameLeptodon cayanensis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)49.5
Weight (g)530
Plumage DetailsAdults have a pale gray head and neck, dark slate-gray back and wings, and pure white underparts. The tail is black with a single broad white band. The cere and legs are yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of high-pitched, whistled 'whee-whee-whee' notes, often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, ranging from southern Mexico through Central America and Trinidad, south to northern Argentina and Paraguay.
Identifying Featuresgray head and neck, dark slate-gray back and wings, white underparts, black tail with single broad white band, yellow cere and legs
Description
The Gray-headed Kite is a medium-sized raptor characterized by its distinctive gray head and neck, contrasting with a dark back and white underparts. It is typically found soaring or perched in the canopy of tropical and subtropical forests, often hunting insects and small vertebrates.
