Letter-winged Kite Bird Details
Elanus scriptus
Letter-winged Kite
Akshar-pankh Paragi
John Gould, 1842
Accipitriformes (HAWKS, EAGLES and KITES)
Accipitridae
Elanus
Australia.
Appearance :
The Letter-winged Kite is a small, slender raptor with long wings and a distinctive black shoulder patch that resembles a letter 'W' or 'M' when in flight. It has a pale gray head and body, with black wingtips and a deeply forked tail.
Behaviour :
It is known for its graceful flight and hunting behavior, often hovering and searching for prey over open grasslands.
Habitat :
Found in arid and semi-arid regions, including open woodlands, grasslands, and agricultural areas.
Diet :
Primarily feeds on small mammals, particularly rodents like mice, as well as small birds, insects, and occasionally reptiles.
Conservation Status :
Least Concern
Distribution :
Found across parts of Australia, particularly in the arid interior regions.
Population Size :
Stable within its range.
Life Span :
Around 10 years.
Body And Tarsus:
The Letter-winged Kite is a small raptor with a slender body and long wings.
Head And Bill :
It has a relatively small head with a hooked bill typical of raptors.
Length :
Approximately 35-38 cm (14-15 inches).
Neck :
The neck is relatively thin and long, typical of many raptors.
Size :
Small to medium-sized raptor.
Tail Details :
Long, graduated tail.
Weight :
Around 180-300 grams (6.3-10.6 ounces).
Wing :
Around 180-300 grams (6.3-10.6 ounces).
Wing Span :
Approximately 80-95 cm (31-37 inches).
Facial Feature :
It has a distinctive facial pattern with a white face and dark patches around the eyes.
Nest Details :
- The nest is usually located in the forks of trees, often in sparse woodland or open country.
- Nest made up of: Twigs and lined with softer materials such as grass and feathers.
Breeding Season :
From late winter to early summer (July to November in Australia).
Nesting Season :
During the breeding season.
Egg Color :
Whitish with brown or reddish spots.
Egg Length :
Around 35-40 mm.
Egg Width and Weight :
Approximately 28-32 mm.
Clutch Size :
Usually 2-3 eggs per clutch.
No. of Broods :
One brood per season.
Incubation Period :
About 30 days.
Nestling Period :
Fledge after about 5-6 weeks.
Vocalization :
The call is described as a high-pitched, whistling "kee-kee-kee".
Sex Demorphism :
Females are slightly larger than males.
Migration Details :
Non-migratory Bird.
