The black-winged kite, also known as the black-shouldered kite, is a small diurnal bird of prey in the family Accipitridae best known for its habit of hovering over open grasslands in the manner of the much smaller kestrels. This Palearctic and Afrotropical species was sometimes combined with the Australian black-shouldered kite and the white-tailed kite of North and South America which together form a superspecies. This kite is distinctive, with long wings; white, grey and black plumage; and owl-like forward-facing eyes with red irises. The owl-like behaviour is even more pronounced in the letter-winged kite, a nocturnal relative in Australia. Although mainly seen on plains, they are sometimes seen on grassy slopes of hills in the higher elevation regions of Asia. They are not migratory, but show nomadism in response to weather and food availability. They are well adapted to utilize periodic upsurges in rodent populations and can raise multiple broods in a single year unlike most birds of prey. Populations in southern Europe have grown in response to human activities, particularly agriculture and livestock rearing. Now present in SouthWest France
Region
Palearctic and Afrotropical regions
Typical Environment
Occurs across Africa, the Middle East, the Indian subcontinent, and into southern Europe and parts of Central and East Asia. Favors open grasslands, savannas, steppe, scrub, and agricultural landscapes including rice fields and pasture. Often hunts along field margins and roadsides and uses pylons and fence posts as perches. Avoids dense forest and true deserts but can use semi-arid open habitats where prey is available. Now established and increasing in parts of southwestern Europe, including southwestern France and the Iberian Peninsula.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small kite famed for its kestrel-like hovering while hunting rodents over open country, it has striking red eyes that give it an owl-like look. It can breed opportunistically during rodent booms, sometimes raising multiple broods in a year. Populations have expanded in parts of southern Europe, aided by agriculture and powerline perches. It is largely resident but may roam widely (nomadism) following food availability.
Comparison of skull of Elanus with Falco (right)
E. c. caeruleus hovering with whitish underside of the secondaries visible.
Immature E. c. caeruleus from Namibia. The iris is dark in young birds.
A courting pair (E. c. vociferus) with a rodent
Eggs
Temperament
mostly solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
capable hoverer with short rapid wingbeats, interspersed with buoyant glides and sudden stoops
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs, defending small hunting territories. Courtship involves aerial displays and food passes; nests are placed in small trees or tall shrubs. Clutches commonly contain 3–5 eggs, and multiple broods can occur in years with abundant rodents. Outside the breeding season, small communal roosts may form near reliable prey sources.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving thin, high-pitched whistles and sharp calls, especially around the nest. Alarm and territorial calls are harsher, chattering notes. Vocal activity increases during courtship and when food is delivered.
