The Black Winged Kite | WILDLIFE SINGAPORE BIRDING | 4K

The Black-winged Kite (Elanus caeruleus) is a striking bird of prey found across various regions of the world, including parts of Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Belonging to the family Accipitridae, this small raptor is known for its distinctive appearance and hovering hunting technique.
Adult Black-winged Kites typically measure around 35 to 38 centimeters in length, with a wingspan of approximately 80 to 95 centimeters. They have predominantly gray plumage on their upperparts, contrasting with a white head, neck, breast, and belly. Additionally, they feature striking black patches on their shoulders and the trailing edge of their wings, giving them their name.
Black-winged Kites are often seen perched on high vantage points, such as trees or utility poles, where they scan the surrounding landscape for prey. They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, insects, and occasionally reptiles, which they catch using their sharp talons.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Black-winged Kites is their hunting behavior. They are known for their ability to hover in mid-air, using rapid wingbeats and subtle adjustments to their tail feathers to maintain their position. This hovering technique allows them to search for prey with precision before swooping down to make a catch.
During the breeding season, Black-winged Kites may form monogamous pairs and construct nests in trees or on ledges, where the female lays eggs and both parents share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
While the Black-winged Kite is not considered globally threatened, it may face localized threats from habitat loss and degradation due to urbanization, agriculture, and changes in land use. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving and restoring suitable habitats are essential for ensuring the continued survival of this charismatic bird of prey, which contributes to the ecological balance of its ecosystems through predation on small animals.
Hello everyone, This is a Black Winged Kite.
All the videos were captured in the Singapore nature reservoir. All videos were captured by Kaikee Leong.
You can view his Instagram page to see all the wildlife photos he captured in Singapore. @k.k.leong
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