- Life expectancy
- Global status
Identification
Compared with the Red Kite it looks darker and more compact. Its tail is only shallowly forked and can appear almost straight when fully fanned. The less contrasting underwing helps when comparing the two species.
Colours
Adult
Dark brown plumage with a slightly forked tail. Males and females can hardly be told apart by plumage.
Behaviour
Away from the immediate nest area it is often sociable. European breeders mostly migrate to Africa and return in spring. Thermals make long distances easier; larger bodies of water are often avoided.
Breeding & rearing
The nest is usually in a tree, often near water. Small woods and open stands of old trees offer suitable sites. The parents need accessible feeding areas nearby to feed the young during the breeding season.
