The Swallow-tailed Kite is an elegant and unmistakable raptor with a deeply forked white and black tail and pointed wings, giving it an incredibly graceful flight. It is highly aerial, snatching insects and small prey on the wing.
Where to spot
Humid forests and wetlands in the southeastern USA, Central America, and South America, particularly near rivers and swamps. Migratory in the northern parts of its range.
How to spot
Look for its striking white body, black back, and long, deeply forked black-and-white tail. Observe its continuous, buoyant, and highly acrobatic flight, often soaring effortlessly for long periods.
When to spot
During breeding season in the northern hemisphere (spring/summer) or year-round in tropical regions. Active during daylight, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
Where to spot
Humid forests and wetlands in the southeastern USA, Central America, and South America, particularly near rivers and swamps. Migratory in the northern parts of its range.
How to spot
Look for its striking white body, black back, and long, deeply forked black-and-white tail. Observe its continuous, buoyant, and highly acrobatic flight, often soaring effortlessly for long periods.
When to spot
During breeding season in the northern hemisphere (spring/summer) or year-round in tropical regions. Active during daylight, especially in the morning and late afternoon.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Its incredible agility in flight allows it to drink water by scooping it up with its lower mandible while skimming the surface of a pond, a truly remarkable aerial maneuver.
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