White-tailed Kite
NameWhite-tailed Kite
Common NameWhite-tailed Kite
Scientific NameElanus leucurus
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)100
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)325
Plumage DetailsAdults have a white head, underparts, and tail, with a pale gray back and upperwings. Distinctive black patches are visible on the shoulders (carpal joints) and around the eyes. The eyes are typically reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a high-pitched, whistled 'kew-kew-kew' or 'whee-whee-whee', often given in flight or when agitated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, coastal, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in parts of North and South America, ranging from the southwestern United States through Mexico and Central America, and widely distributed across South America.
Identifying Featureswhite head and underparts, pale gray back, prominent black shoulder patches, red eyes, white tail, distinctive hovering flight
Description
The White-tailed Kite is an elegant, medium-sized raptor known for its striking white and gray plumage. It often hunts by hovering motionless over open fields before swooping down on prey.
