Black-shouldered kite (Elanus notatus) is an elegant raptor of Australia. It is a member of a worldwide group of ‘black-shouldered’ kites. There are a number of subtle differences between this species and its relatives overseas: a small black spot under each wing; a short, square, all-white tail with dark shafts; and dark-tipped, more pointed wings that promote rapid, fluttering flight.
Black-shouldered Kite found throughout the mainland in woodlands and savannas; irregular in Tasmania. Nomadic. Photo Credit – I Am birdsaspoetry
Habitats:
There is, however, a similarity in its methods of hunting. A kite flutters and glides along its up swept wings, mostly after dawn and towards dusk, from its perch on top of trees or poles. Hovering on its tail, it silently descends on the victim, dangling talons outstretched and wings swept upward.
Diet:
Among its main prey are rodents, reptiles, amphibians, and insects.
Courtship:
When in courtship, a pair soars and flutters, and the male sometimes dives at the female, which turns in the air to present and lock her claws, hurling him to the ground.
Size:
The size of a Black-shouldered Kite is about 330-380 mm long.
Identification:
Both sexes are similar; however, the female is larger. Upper parts are pale grey. Primaries painted, dark grey; black patch at ‘shoulder’ of wing (lesser wing coverts). The head and neck are white except for a small black patch in front of the eye. Tail white, square-cut. The underparts are white except for a small black patch under the bend of the wing. Eyes orange-red. Bill black; cere yellow. Feet bright yellow; claws black. The immature bird is darker on the upper parts, with white edging. Crown, neck, and breast mottled buff-brown. Wings are mottled white and brown. Eyes are brown. The downy young is creamy white.
Vocals:
In display, the Black-shouldered Kite calls chip-chip-chip; in defense, it wheezes kair-kair hoarse.
Nesting & Breeding:
Nesting occurs between April-October. The nest is made of sticks, lined with leaves, and is located 20-25 meters above ground. Breeding alone, they build their nest each year; the male hunts, while the female passes food to the young until they are about two weeks old.
