Lophoictinia isura
The Square-tailed Kite (Lophoictinia isura) is a distinctive medium-sized raptor endemic to Australia, measuring approximately 50-56 cm in length with a wingspan of 130-145 cm. Its most notable feature is its long, square-tipped tail, which, coupled with its exceptionally long, broad, 'fingered' wings, gives it a unique silhouette in flight. Adults typically display a pale, streaky head and underparts, often with a rufous wash on the belly, contrasting with a darker back and upperwings. A pal...
The Square-tailed Kite primarily inhabits open woodlands and forests, particularly those with a tall canopy, often found near watercourses or wetlands. It can be found from sea level up to moderate elevations in hilly country.
The diet of the Square-tailed Kite consists predominantly of large arboreal insects such as stick insects, preying mantises, and cicadas, complemented by small birds, their nestlings, and eggs, as well as small mammals like gliding possums, and tree-dwelling reptiles. They are specialized canopy ...
Square-tailed Kites are diurnal raptors, exhibiting a remarkably distinctive and slow foraging flight style, often seen soaring lazily or quartering through the tree canopy. They are renowned for their 'canopy gleaning' technique, performing deliberate, low-speed passes and hovering motions to pl...
The Square-tailed Kite is endemic to Australia, boasting a broad yet sparse distribution across the northern, eastern, and southwestern parts of the continent. Its breeding range covers most suitable habitats within these regions, from coastal plains to the slopes of the Great Dividing Range. It ...
Least Concern
- The Square-tailed Kite is the sole member of its genus, Lophoictinia, making it a unique lineage among raptors. - It is often called the 'canopy kite' due to its specialized foraging technique of slowly quartering through treetops to glean prey. - Its extremely long, broad wings and long, squar...