The black kite is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors. It is thought to be the world's most abundant species of Accipitridae, although some populations have experienced dramatic declines or fluctuations. Current global population estimates run up to 6.7 million individuals.
Region
Old World (Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia)
Typical Environment
Black kites occupy open and semi-open landscapes, from farmlands and savannas to wetlands, river valleys, and coastal zones. They are common around towns and cities where they scavenge at landfills, abattoirs, and markets. They nest primarily in trees, often near water, but will also use edges of woodlands and agricultural mosaics. During migration they concentrate along major flyways, using thermals to cover large distances with minimal effort.
Altitude Range
0–4000 m
Climate Zone
Other
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black kite is one of the world’s most abundant raptors and thrives in a wide range of habitats, including near human settlements. Its shallowly forked tail and buoyant, tilting flight make it easy to identify in the sky. It is an adept scavenger, frequently gathering around refuse sites, fishing ports, and even following grass fires to catch escaping prey. Several subspecies exist across its vast range, with some populations migratory and others resident.
in Bangladesh
Black Kite (Milvus migrans)- Juvenile in Nepal
Black Kite with prey at Bagmati River, Chovar, Nepal.
Black kite catching fish, Nepal
Eggs
Temperament
social and opportunistic
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Often seen in loose flocks, especially when feeding or migrating, and it may roost communally in large numbers. Pairs usually nest in trees and are largely monogamous, with aerial courtship displays and food-passing. In urban areas, they tolerate close proximity to people and other kites.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
The call is a descending, whistled pee-eee-ooo or a wavering, tremulous whistle, often repeated. Vocalizations are especially frequent near nests and communal roosts.
Plumage
Dark brown to blackish-brown with lighter streaking; underwings show pale panels and dark primary 'fingers'.
Diet
A versatile scavenger, it takes carrion, roadkill, and fish offal, and will pirate food from other birds. It also hunts small mammals, birds, reptiles, and large insects, snatching prey from the ground or water surface. In some regions it exploits locust swarms and follows fires to capture fleeing prey. Around cities it readily consumes human refuse and scraps.
Preferred Environment
Common near water bodies, fishing ports, refuse dumps, and open countryside with scattered trees. It often forages over rivers, lakeshores, grasslands, and agricultural fields, and circles above towns looking for food opportunities.
