Milano capirotado

1. Nombre del ave

Common Name: Black-shouldered Kite
Scientific Name: Elanus axillaris

2. Aspecto

The Black-shouldered Kite is an elegant and striking bird known for its unique coloration and distinctive markings. Its name comes from the deep black patches on its wings and shoulders that contrast starkly against its predominantly white body. The bird’s back and wing coverts are pearl gray, while the head and underparts are a startling white. The kite has red eyes set against a black mask and a short, sharply hooked bill ideal for catching and holding its prey. Both males and females appear identical, making it difficult to distinguish between the two based on physical characteristics alone.

3. Tamaño

The adult Black-shouldered Kite measures approximately 35-38 cm (13.7-15 inches) in length. A distinctive feature is its wingspan, which can reach up to 80-95 cm (31.5-37.5 inches), providing a sensational sight when the bird is in flight. In terms of weight, it ranges from 200 to 300 grams (7 to 10.5 ounces).

4. Hábitat y distribución

This bird species is abundant and widely dispersed across Australia, with sightings also reported in New Guinea and Indonesia. They are equally at home in open countryside, edges of forests, wetlands, grasslands, pastoral areas, and semi-arid regions. Although they can be found in various habitats, their main preference is for open and lightly timbered grasslands.

5. Datos de interés

Black-shouldered Kites are solitary birds except during breeding season. Unlike many birds of prey, they’re also known to hunt in the cool of early morning and late evening, often hovering over fields in search of food. Moult is an interesting time for these birds as the males tend to grow new feathers faster than the females.

6. Dieta

Black-shouldered Kites have a diet primarily made up of mice and other small mammals. Occasionally, they will also eat small birds, insects, and reptiles.

7. Comportamiento y sonidos

Black-shouldered Kites have a distinctive hunting style, often seen hovering over an area before dropping swiftly on their prey. This bird also has a unique call, which sounds like a soft ‘pee pee pee,’ often repeated in quick succession when excited or alarmed.

8. Estado de conservación

The current conservation status, according to the IUCN Red List, lists the Black-shouldered Kite as Least Concern. This is attributed to the bird’s wide distribution and stable population.

9. Vida útil

In the wild, the Black-shouldered Kite can live up to 10 years. However, in captivity, they can live beyond this, typically around 15 years.

10. Notas adicionales

In various regions, they have different names. In some parts of Australia, they are often referred to as the “Australian Kite”. Their role in the ecosystem is significant in controlling rodent populations, owing to their dietary preferences. Regularly moving from place to place, these birds are known to follow the availability of prey, which leads to high levels of interaction with humans, particularly in farming areas.