Snapshot: Swallow-tailed Kite

The Swallow-tailed Kite is a large raptor, as large as a Red-tailed Hawk but much more slender. They are larger than an American Crow. The source of their name is obvious. The black flight feathers and tail combined with the bright white body and wing linings make for a striking sight when viewed from below. They prey on flying insects, including stinging insects like wasps. During breeding season they also pluck frogs, lizards, nestlings and other small animals out of the trees. Swallow-tailed Kites are year-round residents of the northern portion of South America but some will migrate to Central America and the southeast coast of the US around Florida during the summer.