Leptodon cayanensis
The Grey-headed Kite (Leptodon cayanensis) is a striking neotropical raptor, instantly recognizable by its eponymous slate-grey head and neck, contrasting sharply with immaculate white underparts and a dark, sooty-black mantle, wings, and short tail. Adult birds typically measure 46-53 cm (18-21 in) in length with a wingspan of 90-118 cm (35-46 in) and weigh between 410-600g (0.9-1.3 lbs). Juveniles exhibit a different plumage, often appearing darker with a brown back, streaked underparts, an...
Found primarily in humid tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and forest edges, typically in lowlands up to 1500 meters, often near rivers or clearings.
Primarily a specialized feeder on snakes and lizards, supplemented by amphibians, large insects (e.g., grasshoppers, cicadas), and occasionally small birds or mammals. Forages by snatching prey from tree foliage, on the ground, or in mid-air.
This diurnal raptor is generally observed solitarily or in pairs, frequently perching inconspicuously within the forest canopy, often choosing tall trees near water bodies for roosting. Its foraging strategy is characterized by aerial pursuit and perch-hunting; it soars with steady wingbeats and ...
The Grey-headed Kite boasts a wide distribution across the Neotropics, extending from southeastern Mexico through Central America, and south across most of tropical South America. Its breeding range covers countries such as Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Ven...
Least Concern
- The Grey-headed Kite's genus name, *Leptodon*, means 'slender tooth,' referring to its finely serrated tomial tooth, an adaptation for holding slippery prey. - Despite its 'kite' moniker, it is not closely related to the true kites of the genus *Milvus* but is part of the 'baza' or 'honey-kite'...