Black kite
Milvus migrans
The black kite or fire kite (Milvus migrans) is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors.
About the Black kite
The black kite or fire kite (Milvus migrans) is a medium-sized bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors. It is thought to be the world's most abundant species of Accipitridae, although some populations have experienced dramatic declines or fluctuations. Current global population estimates run up to 6.7 million individuals. Unlike others of the group, black kites are opportunistic hunters and are more likely to scavenge. They spend much of their time gliding in thermals in search of food. Their angled wing and distinctive forked tail make them easy to identify. They are vociferous with a distinct shrill whinnying call. The black kite is widely distributed through temperate and tropical parts of Eurasia and parts of Australasia and Oceania. Temp
Fun Facts About Black kite
- Current global population estimates run up to 6.7 million individuals.
- Unlike others of the group, black kites are opportunistic hunters and are more likely to scavenge.
- Their angled wing and distinctive forked tail make them easy to identify.
- Temperate populations tend to be migratory.
Conservation Status
The Black kite is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. This species is currently stable and not at significant risk of population decline.
Taxonomy & Classification
| Order | Accipitriformes |
| Family | Accipitridae |
| Genus | Milvus |
| Species | Milvus migrans |
Range & Habitat
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Other species in the Accipitridae family: