Black-shouldered Kite Bird Details
Elanus axillaris
Black-shouldered Kite
kaalee kandhe vaala chil
John Latham in 1801
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Elanus
Appearance :
The Black-shouldered Kite is a small to medium-sized raptor with predominantly white plumage and striking black shoulder patches (hence the name). It has red eyes and a short, hooked bill.
Behaviour :
These kites are known for their hovering hunting technique, where they hover in the air over open fields or grasslands, searching for prey.
Habitat :
They prefer open habitats such as grasslands, farmlands, wetlands, and lightly wooded areas.
Diet :
Their diet primarily consists of small mammals like rodents, insects, and occasionally small birds.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
They are found in Australia, Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and parts of Africa.
Population Size :
Population numbers can vary regionally
Life Span :
10 years or more
Body And Tarsus:
The Black-shouldered Kite is a small to medium-sized raptor with predominantly pale grey and white plumage, with black shoulders.
Head And Bill :
The head is white with a distinctive black eye patch, and the bill is short and hooked, typical of raptors.
Length :
Approximately 35-38 cm (14-15 inches).
Neck :
The neck is relatively short and blends with the overall slender appearance of the bird.
Size :
Small to medium-sized, similar to other kites.
Tail Details :
The tail is long and squared at the tip.
Weight :
Around 250-350 grams.
Wing :
The wings are long and pointed.
Wing Span :
Around 80-95 cm (31-37 inches).
Facial Feature :
Distinctive black eye patch on a white face.
Nest Details :
- Builds a stick nest in trees, often lined with softer materials like leaves or grass.
- Nest made up of: Sticks, twigs, and sometimes lined with softer materials like grass or feathers.
Breeding Season :
Often in spring or summer.
Nesting Season :
During the breeding period.
Egg Color :
Usually white with reddish-brown spots.
Egg Length :
Approximately 36-43 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
Approximately 28-33 mm.
Clutch Size :
2-4 eggs per clutch.
No. of Broods :
One brood per breeding season.
Incubation Period :
Around 28-30 days, typically performed by the female.
Nestling Period :
About 4-5 weeks before fledging.
Vocalization :
Typically silent except during breeding season when they may make high-pitched calls or whistles.
Sex Demorphism :
females are slightly larger than males on average.
Migration Details :
Non-Migratory Birds
