White-tailed Kites have a tiny range in the U.S., but they occur throughout the Americas, breeding as far south as Chile and Argentina. A closely related and very similar species, the Black-shouldered Kite, occurs across Europe, Africa, and Asia. The oldest recorded White-tailed Kite was at least 6 years old when it was found in California.

White-tailed kite with prey. The white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is a small raptor found in western North America and parts of South America. It replaces the related Old World black-winged kite in its native range.

Small hawk with narrow, pointed wings and long tail. Adults in flight are white below with black primaries and a dark spot on the "wrists."

As recently as the 1940s, this graceful hawk was considered rare and endangered in North America, restricted to a few sites in California and Texas. In recent decades, it has increased greatly in numbers and spread into many new areas.

Mostly white, small hawk. Gray wings and back with black shoulders. Hovers over open areas in search of mice, snakes, and other prey. Perches atop tall vegetation in open landscapes including coastal plains and agricultural areas. Learn more about White-tailed Kite from… Comprehensive life histories for all bird species and families.

Basic facts about White-Tailed Kite: lifespan, distribution and habitat map, lifestyle and social behavior, mating habits, diet and nutrition, population size and status.

White-tailed Kites are common in savannas, open woodlands, marshes, desert grasslands, partially cleared lands, and cultivated fields. They tend to avoid heavily grazed areas. The White-tailed Kite eats mainly small mammals, but it also eats …

Jun 7, 2024 · The White-tailed Kite is a fairly distinctive bird: small sized, white head, white body, gray-black wings, black shoulders, and of course, a white tail. Their eyes, upon closer inspection, are dark red. This achieves a dramatic color scheme one can only enjoy up …

The White-tailed Kite, also referred to as the White Hawk and the Black-shouldered Kite, is the only North American Kite that hovers while hunting for prey. This prey consists of small rodents, especially Voles, and occasionally reptiles, insects, and other small birds.

Nov 14, 2023 · The white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus) is a medium-sized raptor found in open grasslands, savannas, and wetlands throughout much of the Americas. Known for its distinctive white tail and hovering flight, this elegant bird of prey was once rare and declining across much of its range, leading to heightened conservation interest.