The yellow-billed kite is the Afrotropic counterpart of the black kite, of which it is most often considered a subspecies. However, DNA studies suggest that the yellow-billed kite differs significantly from black kites in the Eurasian clade, and should be considered as a separate, allopatric species.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa and Nile Valley, extending to Madagascar and southwestern Arabian Peninsula
Typical Environment
Yellow-billed kites occupy a wide range of open and semi-open habitats including savannas, open woodland, river corridors, wetlands, coastal lagoons, and urban areas. They commonly patrol over water and along roads, and gather at abattoirs, fishing harbors, and rubbish dumps. They avoid dense interior rainforest and the most arid deserts but occur along edges and oases. On Madagascar and many offshore islands they are widespread near settlements. Seasonal movements occur in parts of the range following rainfall, prey eruptions, and water levels.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The yellow-billed kite is the Afrotropical counterpart of the black kite and is often treated as a distinct species based on genetic and vocal differences. It thrives around people, frequently scavenging at markets, fishing ports, and rubbish dumps. Its shallowly forked tail and buoyant, tilting flight make it a familiar sight over savannas and rivers. Adults show a bright yellow bill, while juveniles have darker bills that yellow with age.
Temperament
social and opportunistic
Flight Pattern
soaring glider
Social Behavior
Often seen in loose flocks, especially where food is abundant, and forms communal roosts. Pairs are monogamous and build stick nests high in trees, frequently near water or in suburban areas. Breeding season varies with region and rainfall, with some pairs reusing nests across years.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives a clear, descending whistled call, often rendered as a mellow, drawn-out pee-wee-wee. Calls are most frequent during display flights and at roost sites, with harsher chatter during feeding disputes.
