Black Kite

Black Kite Latest News

An article recently revealed that black kites have been found to nest in a tower structure located in Chennai.

About Black Kite

• It is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae,
• Unlike others in the group, Black kites are opportunistic hunters and spend much time soaring and gliding in thermals in search of food.
• Appearance of Black Kite
  • These are medium-sized raptors. Their dorsal coloration is mostly brown, which fades to a darker brown towards the tips of the wings and tail.
  • They have small, bead-like dark brown eyes and a large black, hook-shaped beak for tearing flesh and consuming their prey.
• Habitat of Black Kite: They live in a wide variety of habitats from wetlands, river edges, coasts, grassland, open savannas, shrubland, and woodlands
• Distribution of Black Kite: They are mainly found in tropical portions of Australasia, Eurasia, and Africa.
• They are monogamous and form strong pair bonds that may last for life. 
• Diet: It is an extremely versatile feeder, it takes carrion as well as live birds, mammals, fish, lizards, amphibians and invertebrates, and is even known to forage on vegetable matter such as palm oil fruits
• Conservation Status of Black Kite
  • IUCN: Least Concern
  • Wild Life Protection Act, 1972: Schedule-II

Black Kite FAQs

Q1: What is the Black Kite known for?

Ans: Black kites are opportunistic hunters and are more likely to scavenge.

Q2: Where do black kites come from?

Ans: Europe, South Asia, and Australasia;

Q3: What is the nickname of the Black Kite?

Ans: Fork-tailed kites

Source: TH