Snail Kite
NameSnail Kite
Common NameSnail Kite
Scientific NameRostrhamus sociabilis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)109.5
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)465
Plumage DetailsAdult males are slate gray with black primary feathers and a white tail base. Adult females and juveniles are dark brown with streaked underparts, a pale face, and a white tail base, often with some barring on the tail. The bird in the image appears to be a juvenile or female due to its brownish plumage.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of harsh, raspy 'kaws' or 'kra-kra-kra' calls, often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater wetlands, marshes, swamps
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southeastern United States (Florida), Cuba, Mexico, Central America, and much of tropical South America.
Identifying Featureshighly specialized slender, hooked bill, long, broad wings, white tail base (especially visible in flight), dark plumage (slate gray in adult males, brown in females/juveniles), red eyes and cere in adult males
Description
The Snail Kite is a medium-sized raptor specialized in hunting freshwater snails. It has long, broad wings and a distinctive slender, hooked bill perfectly adapted for extracting snails from their shells. This bird is often seen soaring gracefully over wetlands.
