The swallow-tailed kite is a pernine raptor which breeds from the southeastern United States to eastern Peru and northern Argentina. It is the only species in the genus Elanoides. Most North and Central American breeders winter in South America where the species is resident year round.
Region
Neotropics and Southeastern United States
Typical Environment
Breeds locally in the southeastern United States and is widespread from Mexico through Central America into northern and central South America, including the Amazon and parts of the Atlantic Forest. Prefers mosaics of mature forest, wetlands, and open areas where updrafts aid soaring. Often found along river corridors, swamps, pine and cypress stands, and seasonally flooded forests. Foraging commonly occurs over forest edges, pastures, and marshes, with roosting in tall emergent trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This striking black-and-white raptor is famed for its deeply forked tail and extraordinarily graceful, acrobatic flight. It often catches insects and small vertebrates on the wing, transferring prey from talons to beak while soaring. North and Central American breeders migrate to South America, where many populations are resident year-round. It nests high in tall trees near wetlands and river floodplains and can serve as an indicator of healthy bottomland forests.
Swallow-tailed kite
A group of more than 20 swallow-tailed kites gathering at sunset in Sanibel Island, Florida
Plate 72 of The Birds of America by John James Audubon, depicting the swallow-tailed "hawk" or kite
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Often seen in small groups outside the breeding season and forms communal roosts, especially during migration. Pairs are monogamous and build twig nests high in tall trees, frequently near water. They may nest in loose colonies where habitat is suitable, and both adults attend the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Generally quiet; vocalizations are thin, high-pitched whistles and chattering notes. Calls are given during courtship, at nests, and when interacting at roosts.
