The pearl kite is a very small raptor found in open savanna habitat adjacent to deciduous woodland in Central and South America. It is the only member of the genus Gampsonyx. The scientific name commemorates the English naturalist William Swainson.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Found from southern Central America into much of northern and central South America, including Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, Trinidad, northern and central Brazil, eastern Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. It favors open savannas, palm-dotted grasslands, pastures, and the edges of dry or deciduous woodland. Common along forest edges, wetlands fringes, and human-modified open country with scattered trees. Often seen perched conspicuously on wires, isolated shrubs, or dead snags. Local movements may occur following prey abundance and seasonal rains.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The pearl kite is one of the smallest raptors in the Americas, often hunting from roadside wires and fence posts. Its name refers to the pearly white spots on the upperwing coverts, and it is the sole member of the genus Gampsonyx. It frequently hovers like a kestrel before dropping on prey. The scientific name honors English naturalist William Swainson.
subspecies north of the Amazon river
Frontal view showing yellow forehead. South of Guayaquil, Ecuador
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent hovering
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, using elevated perches to scan for prey. Pairs maintain small territories in suitable open habitat. Nest is a small stick platform placed in a tree or palm; both sexes participate in incubation and provisioning. Breeding timing varies with region and rainfall patterns.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched whistles and rapid chittering notes, often given from a perch. Calls can become insistent near the nest or when agitated. Generally a quiet species away from breeding contexts.
Plumage
Compact kite with dark slate to blackish upperparts adorned with conspicuous white 'pearl' spots on the wing coverts; clean white underparts with a buffy to rufous wash on the breast and flanks. Tail is black with bold white bands. The head shows a dark crown and mask contrasting with white cheeks and throat. Feathers are sleek and tight, giving a neat, sharp-edged appearance.
Diet
Primarily hunts small lizards (especially anoles), supplemented by large insects such as grasshoppers, crickets, and dragonflies. Will also take small frogs, nestling birds, and occasionally small rodents. Prey is spotted from a perch or while hovering, then seized in a swift stoop. Food is often carried back to a perch to be consumed.
Preferred Environment
Forages along savanna edges, pasturelands with scattered trees, and palm savannas. Frequently uses fences, utility wires, and exposed branches as vantage points. Also hunts along wetland margins and open scrub.
