The brahminy kite, also known as the red-backed sea-eagle in Australia, is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors, such as eagles, buzzards, and harriers, found in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The brahminy kite is found mainly on the coast and in inland wetlands, where it feeds on dead fish and other prey. Adults have a reddish-brown body plumage contrasting with their white head and breast which make them easy to distinguish from other birds of prey.
Region
South and Southeast Asia to northern Australia
Typical Environment
Most abundant along coasts, estuaries, mangroves, and large inland wetlands. Frequently patrols harbors, fish landing sites, and rivers where carrion and fish scraps are available. Also uses agricultural floodplains and reservoirs, and occasionally ranges over open country near water. Often perches conspicuously on poles or tall trees near shorelines.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A familiar coastal raptor across South and Southeast Asia to northern Australia, the brahminy kite is often seen cruising low over shorelines and wetlands. Revered in parts of South Asia, its saffron-toned body and white head inspired its common name. It is a proficient scavenger that also snatches live prey from the water’s surface and mudflats. The species is the avian emblem of Jakarta, Indonesia.
Brahminy kite eating, Kabini Reservoir, India
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often maintaining territories along shorelines. Pairs are monogamous and build stick nests high in trees near water, lining them with softer materials. Communal roosting can occur where food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives a distinctive, ringing, mewing whistle that carries over water. Calls are often delivered while circling high or when interacting with a mate near the nest.
Plumage
Adults show rich rufous body and wings with a contrasting clean white head, neck, and breast; primaries darker with blackish tips. Juveniles are brown with pale streaking and lack the crisp white head.
Diet
Primarily a scavenger of dead fish, refuse, and carrion, but also takes live prey such as fish, crabs, amphibians, and small vertebrates. Will pirate food from other birds and exploit fish markets and harbors for scraps. Often snatches items from the surface without fully landing, and may forage over mudflats at low tide.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along coastlines, estuaries, mangroves, tidal rivers, and large inland lakes and reservoirs. Comfortable around human-altered waterfronts, ports, and dumps where food waste is available.
