The gray-headed kite is a raptor found in open woodland and swamp forests. It shares the genus Leptodon with the extremely rare white-collared kite. It breeds from eastern Mexico and Trinidad south to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil and northern Argentina.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Breeds from eastern Mexico and Trinidad south through Central America into much of the Amazon and Atlantic Forest regions to Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, and northern Argentina. Prefers tall lowland to foothill forests, including swamp forests, gallery forests, and forest edges. Often seen along rivers, clearings, and second-growth adjacent to mature forest. Uses high canopy perches and open gaps for hunting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Juveniles occur in several striking morphs that mimic larger raptors, likely deterring predators. Adults often raid wasp and bee nests, plucking larvae with great agility. It shares the genus Leptodon with the extremely rare white-collared kite.
Immature, light morph in Pantanal, Brazil
In Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, deep wingbeats; occasional kiting over canopy gaps
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, perched high in the canopy or soaring above forest. Builds a stick platform nest high in trees; clutch is typically a single egg. Pairs are territorial during breeding, with the male frequently provisioning the incubating female and chick.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, plaintive whistled notes, often descending in pitch, such as a mewing 'pee-oo' carried over the canopy. Also utters short piping whistles during display flights. Vocalizations are sporadic and most frequent in the breeding season.
