The White-tailed Kite (Elanus leucurus) is an elegant raptor widely distributed across parts of North and South America. This striking bird of prey typically measures between 14 to 16 inches in length, with a wingspan ranging from 38 to 43 inches. In terms of weight, they generally weigh between 8 to 12 ounces. Distinguishing field marks of the White-tailed Kite include its slender body, long wings, and distinctive black shoulder patches contrasting with its predominantly white plumage. Their namesake white tail stands out prominently during flight, making them easily identifiable even from a distance.

White-tailed Kites are primarily found in open habitats such as grasslands, marshes, savannas, and agricultural areas, where they hunt for small mammals, birds, and insects. They are renowned for their hovering hunting technique, where they can remain stationary in the air for extended periods, scanning the ground below for prey. Their keen eyesight and agile flight make them efficient predators capable of capturing prey both on the ground and in the air.

Migration patterns of White-tailed Kites vary depending on their range. While some populations are largely sedentary throughout the year, others may undertake seasonal movements or dispersals in response to changing environmental conditions or prey availability. In regions where they experience harsh winter conditions, such as parts of the northern United States and Canada, some individuals may migrate southward to warmer areas during the winter months.

During the breeding season, which typically occurs in spring and summer, White-tailed Kites construct nests made of sticks and lined with softer materials such as grasses and feathers. Their nests are often placed in trees, shrubs, or even on utility poles and artificial structures. Both male and female kites participate in incubating the eggs and raising the young. Despite their adaptability to human-altered landscapes, habitat loss and degradation pose significant threats to their populations, particularly in areas undergoing rapid urbanization and agricultural intensification.

Conservation efforts aimed at preserving and restoring suitable habitat for the White-tailed Kite are crucial for ensuring the long-term viability of their populations. Protection of key nesting and foraging areas, as well as efforts to mitigate human-induced threats such as habitat destruction and pesticide use, are essential for the conservation of this iconic bird of prey. Through collaborative efforts involving local communities, researchers, and conservation organizations, we can work towards ensuring a sustainable future for the White-tailed Kite and the ecosystems it inhabits.