BLACK KITE
Milvus migrans
DESCRIPTION
The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is a medium-sized raptor known for its distinctive forked tail and soaring flight. It is highly adaptable and often found near human settlements, scavenging for food.
FUN FACTS
- Black Kites are known for their impressive aerial acrobatics | They can often be seen scavenging in urban areas | Their forked tail helps them maneuver during flight
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
Average Weight0.7-1.5 kg
Average Length0.6-0.7 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social StructureThey are often seen in groups, especially when feeding, but can also be solitary.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Black Kites inhabit a variety of environments, including urban areas, wetlands, and open fields. They prefer areas with abundant food sources and nesting sites.
- Biomes
- Grassland, Wetland, Urban
- Native Range
- Black Kites are found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia, migrating seasonally in some regions.
- Continent
- Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia
- Countries
- India, Australia, Spain, Egypt, South Africa
- Diet
- Black Kites primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and carrion. They are opportunistic feeders and will also scavenge from human refuse.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- small mammals, carrion
- Social Structure
- They are often seen in groups, especially when feeding, but can also be solitary.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 5-30
- Territorial
- 0
0.7-1.5 kg
Weight
0.6-0.7 m
Length
- Coloration
- Dark brown with lighter mottling and a distinctive forked tail.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males and females are similar in appearance, but females are generally larger.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild, up to 20 in captivity
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable in many areas, though some regions may experience declines.
- Wild Population Estimate
- 1,000,000-2,000,000
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss, poisoning, and hunting. They are also affected by changes in food availability due to human activities.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their agility and speed to evade predators and can also engage in mobbing behavior.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon