Snail Kite
NameSnail Kite
Common NameSnail Kite
Scientific NameRostrhamus sociabilis
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)115
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)450
Plumage DetailsAdult males are dark slate-gray with black primaries and a white tail base with a broad black terminal band. Adult females and juveniles are brownish on the upperparts with heavily streaked whitish underparts, often showing a pale supercilium. The bird in the image appears to be a juvenile or female due to the streaked belly and brownish tones.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of harsh, raspy 'kaws' or 'kra-kra-kra' calls, often given when disturbed or during territorial displays.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsfreshwater wetlands, marshes, swamps, lakes
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Florida (USA), Cuba, Mexico, Central America, and widely distributed across much of South America.
Identifying FeaturesSlender, deeply hooked bill, Long, orange-red legs (adults), White tail base with black terminal band (adults), Slow, buoyant flight pattern, Specialized diet of apple snails
Description
The Snail Kite is a medium-sized raptor known for its highly specialized diet of apple snails. It exhibits a distinctive slow, buoyant flight over freshwater wetlands, often perching to scan for prey. Its slender, deeply hooked bill is perfectly adapted for extracting snails from their shells.
