The square-tailed kite is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as kites, eagles and harriers.
Region
Australia
Typical Environment
Found across much of mainland Australia, especially in open forests, woodlands, riparian corridors, and forest edges. It favors mosaics of tall trees and open spaces where it can quarter the canopy for prey. The species also uses lightly wooded farmland and roadsides and is occasionally drawn to areas of smoke or recent fire where prey is exposed. Breeding typically occurs in taller trees near water or forest edges, with well-hidden stick nests placed high in the canopy.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The square-tailed kite is a slender, long-winged Australian raptor that specializes in slow, buoyant flight over woodland canopy. It often raids nests for eggs and nestlings and deftly plucks prey items from foliage while on the wing. Adults show a distinctive pale face with a dark eye-stripe and a square-tipped tail that gives the species its name.
Kobble Creek, SE Queensland
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
soaring glider with slow, buoyant quartering flight and occasional short, shallow wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or as pairs, especially during the breeding season. Pairs construct a stick nest high in a tall tree, often near water or along forest edges; clutch size is small, often one to two eggs. The species is monogamous and defends its nesting territory.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet, but gives high, mewing whistles and sharp calls near the nest or during displays. Vocalizations are most frequent in the breeding season and when interacting with mates or intruders.
