Elanus scriptus
The Letter-winged Kite (Elanus scriptus) is a striking, medium-sized raptor endemic to the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia. Measuring approximately 33-38 cm in length with a wingspan of 84-90 cm and weighing 230-340g, its most distinctive field mark is the bold, jet-black 'W' or 'M' pattern on the underside of its pure white wings, clearly visible in flight, resembling written script. Its plumage is predominantly white on the underparts, head, and tail, with pale grey on its back and...
This species inhabits arid and semi-arid grasslands, shrublands, and open woodlands, favoring areas with dense ground cover for prey and scattered trees for nesting and communal roosting. It primarily occupies low-lying plains and riverine areas within Australia's interior.
The diet consists almost exclusively of small nocturnal rodents, particularly the Long-haired Rat (Rattus villosissimus), which it hunts by hovering and pouncing from above. Occasionally, large insects, small birds, or reptiles may supplement its diet.
The Letter-winged Kite is largely nocturnal, hunting primarily after dusk and throughout the night, and often roosting communally in trees during the day. Its foraging strategy involves sustained hovering, much like a Kestrel, before pouncing on unsuspecting prey with remarkable precision. While ...
The Letter-winged Kite is endemic to mainland Australia, primarily found in the arid and semi-arid interior. Its core breeding and resident range is centered on the Channel Country of Queensland and the Northern Territory, extending into parts of South Australia and New South Wales. However, it i...
Least Concern
- The Letter-winged Kite is one of the few truly nocturnal raptors in the world, hunting predominantly at night. - Its distinctive underwing pattern, resembling a 'W' or 'M', gives it its common name and the "scriptus" in its scientific name. - They are highly nomadic, undertaking massive, unpred...