Black Kite

A medium-sized bird of prey, about 1.5 times larger than a crow, widely distributed. The kite that inhabits our region is called black, but in reality, its plumage is dark brown, with a lighter underside featuring reddish tones. It has a noticeable "notch" on its tail. The overall length is 50–60 cm, weight is 800–1100 g, wing length is 41–51 cm, and wingspan is 140–155 cm. Females are slightly larger than males. The coloration of adult birds (two years and older) on the dorsal side is dark brown. The crown is sometimes whitish with dark streaks. The primary flight feathers are dark brown with light bases on the inner vanes, and the tail feathers are brown with a dark transverse pattern. The underside is brown, often with a reddish tint. The beak and legs are yellow.

This is a beautiful and agile flyer. It often soars and circles at heights of 70-100 m. It arrives singly, in small groups, or in flocks of up to a hundred birds.

The kite builds its nest in tall trees—between eight and twenty meters above the ground, on ledges of cliffs or in cavities, making it difficult to access. The nest is made of twigs. The kite "decorates" its home with various rags and strings. The nest lining consists of fur, pieces of paper, clay, and dung, which gives the nest a foul smell. The nest is usually used for several years. The clutch consists of 2-5 eggs, more often 2-3, laid from mid-April to May. The female primarily incubates for about 30 days, while the male brings food for her and later for the chicks. The chicks remain in the nest for more than a month and a half.

The kite is a polyphagous feeder. It readily consumes carrion, scraps, and dead fish. Active hunting for prey is not very accessible for the kite, as indicated by its relatively weak feet with short toes. It catches frogs, lizards, small birds, and rodents. It often preys on the chicks of waterfowl and shorebirds.

Red Book