The square-tailed kite is in the family Accipitridae, which also includes other raptors like eagles and harriers. These kites dwell throughout most of Australia. Even though more than half of their territory has been decimated for use as agricultural land and the fact that they face the threats of egg poachers & being killed for fear of predation of domestic fowl, these birds of prey are still abundant enough to be listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Their populations are decreasing though.
First the Stats…
Scientific name: Lophoictinia isura
Weight: Up to 22.93 ounces
Length: Up to 22.05 inches, including up to a 11 inch tail
Wingspan: Up to 57.09 inches
Lifespan: Up to 17 years
Now on to the Facts!
1.) These kites were originally described in 1847 by German naturalist Johann Jakob Kaup.
2.) They are diurnal (active during the day).
3.) There is no seasonal changes to their plumage.
4.) Square-tailed kites can tolerate a wide range of habitats such as heathland, open and temperate forests, riverine trees, savannah, scrublands, woodlands, and well-vegetated urban areas like golf courses and parks.
5.) Kites can be found alone, in pairs, or in small family groups.
But wait, there’s more on the square-tailed kite!
6.) Not being densely populated, there is often up to 8.08 miles between each individual, pair, or family.
7.) Smaller bird species and their eggs, mice, rats, insects, molluscs, and reptiles are all on the menu.
Did you know…?
It is estimated that there are about 10,000 wild individuals, 67% of those are thought to be sexually mature.
8.) During the courtship flights, the male will pursue the female. During this pursuit the pair performs aerial rolls in which the talons are displayed but don’t make contact. These flights are also accompanied by vocalizations.
9.) Females lay up to 2 eggs that hatch in up to 40 days.
10.) Square-tailed kites exhibit pre-copulatory behaviors like various vocalizations and allopreening (grooming one another).
Now a Short Square-Tailed Kite Video!
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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN
Photo credit: Donald Hobern
