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Black KiteAlternative names: "Fork-tailed Kite", "Allied Kite" Size: male 50 cm, female 55 cm; wing span 1.2-1.5 m |
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Habitat |
(for details refer to a field guide) |
Black Kites are found basically everywhere on the Australian continent, including part of the north coast of Tasmania. They are only rarely present in the south-eastern part of WA and the south-eastern coastal strip roughly from Sydney to Melbourne.
Black Kites hunt mostly above open country, but also along inland watercourses. They also scavenge and can therefore often be found around rubbish tips.
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Sightings |
We have spotted Black Kites while driving on various roads around Narrabri, NSW, first in 2004, then again quite regularly in subsequent years.
Also spotted by us on a trip to outback NSW and South Australia in March 2008. In particular, there was a group of about 50 birds 10 km west of Burren Junction, NSW.
At the end of Februrary 2009 a single bird was observed 20 km east of Narrabri. It was chased by several birds that had their young around at the time, namely Magpie-larks, Australian Magpies and Nankeen Kestrels.
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Photos |
Close-up view of a Black Kite overhead
Lateral view of a Black Kite in flight
Black Kite having a good look around
Black Kite attempting to gain altitude
While banking this bird opens up a great view of its plumage
in brillian sunlight
Juvenile Black Kite on a fencepost
Clear view of the underwing pattern of a juvenile Black Kite;
note also how the legs are hidden by feathers for minimal air
resistance
View of the upper wing pattern of a juvenile Black Kite
Black Kite seen from straight behind. Note the kinked wings and the skewed tip of the tail, both of which are typical of Black Kites
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Behaviour |
| Social behaviour: Communal | Mobility: Nomadic/dispersive | Elementary unit: Flock |
Black Kites are the only species of raptor known to us that will congregate in large numbers. Up to 50 were spotted by us together in one flock.
Two of a total of ten Black Kites scavenging at a rubbish tip,
which upset the local population of Australian Ravens a bit
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Food |
All raptors are carnivores. Black Kites mainly feed on carrion. They are often found around rubbish tips.
