Black kite

The Black kite is a scarce drifter in the Netherlands, mainly in spring in very small numbers. Since 2009 a few couples nest here. It hunts often on small fish which it picks out of the water with its claws. I saw one flying over the Beninger polder, where I live, and was able to take a proof picture. In Blijdorp Zoo they have one that participates in the Free flight show. Great to observe one so close.

All my pictures can be seen here

Field characteristics

Black kites are darkish brown, in bad light almost black. The head is a little lighter and it has lighter secondaries, which give the underside of the wings a light patch. The tail is shorter than that of a Red kite, less forked and almost square when stretched. Also its wings are less long and pointed than a Red kite. It is less colourful than the red kite. It has some resemblance with a Marsh harrier.

Sound:

Acrid, vibrating