Whistling Kite
NameWhistling Kite
Common NameWhistling Kite
Scientific NameHaliastur sphenurus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)110
Length (cm)55
Weight (g)690
Plumage DetailsAdults have a pale head and underparts, contrasting with darker brown wings and back. The tail is long and rounded, typically paler than the wings. Juveniles are generally darker and more streaked.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, loud, descending whistle, often described as 'seee-ooo' or 'tew-whee-tew'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia, Tasmania, New Guinea, and some islands in Indonesia and the Solomon Islands.
Identifying Featurespale head and underparts, darker brown wings, long rounded tail, distinctive whistling call, soaring flight pattern
Description
The Whistling Kite is a medium-sized raptor known for its distinctive call and graceful soaring flight. It is often found near water bodies, open woodlands, and grasslands, where it hunts and scavenges.
