Swallow-tailed Kite
NameSwallow-tailed Kite
Common NameSwallow-tailed Kite
Scientific NameElanoides forficatus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)127.5
Length (cm)59
Weight (g)455
Plumage DetailsThis species exhibits a distinctive black and white plumage. The head, neck, and underparts are pure white, contrasting sharply with the glossy black wings, back, and deeply forked tail.
Vocalization / CallTypically a quiet bird, but it can produce high-pitched, whistled 'klee-klee-klee' calls, especially when nesting or disturbed.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsswamps, wetlands, pine forests, deciduous forests, riparian areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the southeastern United States (primarily Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana) and migrates to South America for winter. Also resident in parts of Central and South America.
Identifying Featuresdeeply forked tail, striking black and white plumage, long, pointed wings, buoyant, graceful flight, white head and underparts, black back and wings
Description
The Swallow-tailed Kite is a strikingly elegant raptor known for its graceful, buoyant flight and deeply forked tail. It often forages on the wing, snatching insects and small vertebrates from the air or tree canopy with remarkable agility.
