Birds
File:Elanus axillaris -Newstead, Victoria, Australia -two-8.jpg

Black-shouldered Kite

Black-shouldered Kite

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Spotted
The Black-shouldered Kite is a common and widespread raptor across Australia, identifiable by its bright red eyes and striking white and grey plumage with prominent black 'shoulders.' It specializes in hunting small rodents.
Where to spot
Open grasslands, savannas, agricultural areas, and suburban parks throughout mainland Australia and some offshore islands.
How to spot
Look for its almost entirely white head and underparts, grey back, and distinct black patches on its wing shoulders. Watch for its characteristic hovering flight over open ground or perching on exposed wires and branches.
When to spot
Year-round, often seen hunting during daylight, particularly around dawn and dusk when rodents are most active.
File:Australian Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris) - Flickr - Lip Kee.jpg
File:Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris), Newstead, Victoria (39036188992).jpg
File:Elanus axillaris -Newstead, Victoria, Australia -two-8.jpg
File:Elanus axillaris -Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia-8.jpg
File:Elanus axillaris -Strangways, Victoria, Australia-8 (2).jpg
File:Elanus axillaris - Christopher Watson.jpg
File:Australian Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris) - Flickr - Lip Kee.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Black-shouldered Kite (Elanus axillaris), Newstead, Victoria (39036188992).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Elanus axillaris -Newstead, Victoria, Australia -two-8.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Elanus axillaris -Royal Botanic Gardens, Cranbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia-8.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Elanus axillaris -Strangways, Victoria, Australia-8 (2).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Elanus axillaris - Christopher Watson.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
Like its close relatives, it has an exceptional ability to hover, allowing it to pinpoint prey from a stationary position in the air before dropping down.
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