The letter-winged kite is a small, rare and irruptive bird of prey that is found only in Australia. Measuring around 35 cm (14 in) in length with a wingspan of 84–100 cm (33–39 in), the adult letter-winged kite has predominantly pale grey and white plumage and prominent black rings around its red eyes. Its name derives from its highly distinctive black underwing pattern of a shallow 'M' or 'W' shape, visible when in flight. This distinguishes it from the otherwise similar black-shouldered kite. This species is also the only nocturnal species within the order Accipitriformes despite few differences found in its visual anatomy to other closely related kites.
Region
Australian Outback
Typical Environment
Occurs across the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia, favoring open gibber plains, chenopod shrublands, floodplains, and sparsely timbered grasslands. It is highly nomadic and tracks rodent outbreaks, appearing in large numbers where prey is abundant. By day it roosts in trees or dense shrubs, and at night it hunts over open country with few obstacles. Colonies are often established along watercourses or in clumps of trees that offer suitable nesting sites.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The letter-winged kite is the only truly nocturnal species in the order Accipitriformes. Its black underwing pattern forms a bold 'M' or 'W' in flight, giving the bird its name and separating it from the similar black-shouldered kite. Numbers irrupt dramatically following inland rodent plagues, after which populations contract and birds disperse widely. It often nests colonially, a rare behavior among kites.
A letter-winged kite in flight, Birdsville Track, South Australia. The underwing markings are visible.
Roosting in Diamantina basin, Queensland
On a nest in foliage in Birdsville Track, South Australia
Temperament
secretive and crepuscular-nocturnal
Flight Pattern
buoyant flier with slow elastic wingbeats, capable of hovering and low quartering over open ground
Social Behavior
Often nests in loose colonies, with multiple pairs using neighboring trees or clumps along watercourses. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and share incubation and chick rearing. Outside breeding, birds may roost communally near reliable prey sources.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet, giving thin high-pitched whistles and chattering calls, especially around colonies at night. Alarm notes are sharper, while contact calls are softer and repeated.
