Milvus milvus
The Red Kite (Milvus milvus) is an unmistakable raptor, characterized by its striking reddish-brown plumage, long, deeply forked rufous tail, and diagnostic white patches visible at the base of its primary feathers on the underwing. This elegant bird measures 60-70 cm (24-28 inches) in length with an impressive wingspan of 175-195 cm (69-77 inches) and weighs between 800-1300g. Its pale, streaked head and buoyant, graceful flight distinguish it from other birds of prey. Taxonomically, it belo...
Primarily found in open woodlands, agricultural land, pasture, and mosaic landscapes with scattered trees, often preferring hilly or undulating terrain up to 2,500 meters (8,200 feet) elevation.
Primarily an opportunistic scavenger, feeding on carrion, but also preys on small mammals, birds, amphibians, earthworms, and large insects, typically observed soaring and snatching food from the ground or surface.
Red Kites are diurnal birds, often seen soaring gracefully during the day, scanning the ground for food. Outside the breeding season, they frequently gather in large communal roosts at dusk, sometimes numbering hundreds of individuals. Their foraging strategy is opportunistic; they are highly ski...
The Red Kite is primarily distributed across the Western Palearctic, with its main breeding range extending from central and southern Europe into parts of Northwest Africa. Northern populations, such as those in Scandinavia and parts of Central Europe, are largely migratory, moving south to winte...
Least Concern
- The Red Kite's deeply forked tail acts like a rudder, allowing for incredible agility and precise control during flight. - In medieval times, Red Kites were common in European cities, where they acted as natural street cleaners, scavenging refuse. - The species has undergone one of Europe's mos...