Square-tailed Kite

Description:

More rufous in colour than similar kites, a raptor that is not as common as others of its type, soars above tree tops in search of small prey and nestlings of other birds, light wing area can be seen in flight, tail is longer and more square than similar kites. Nested in August and juveniles finally left the nest in late November, returning often to the nest for family support.

Habitat:

Found throughout Australia, less commonly in arid inland regions, this one in dry northern NSW woodland forest.

Notes:

This is the last of the three fledglings and is the only one of the family group of five still living, in the past few weeks the others fell victim to shooters. This one circles down low around me and perches nearby for a 'chat' most days. The day was overcast and misty hence the lack of clarity in the images.