Black-shouldered Kite

1. Bright red eyes with black facial markings extending behind the eye

2. Black shoulder patches contrasting with light grey wings and white body

3. Characteristic hovering ("wind-hanging") hunting behaviour over open ground

Black-shouldered Kites are small mammal specialists, with the introduced House Mouse making up over 9% of their diet in many areas. They hunt by hovering in place with rapid wingbeats, scanning the ground before dropping silently onto prey. They also take insects, small birds, and reptiles. The species forms monogamous pairs and breeds mainly from August to January, but can breed year-round when food is abundant. Courtship involves spectacular aerial displays and mid-air food passes. Nests are built high in trees or on artificial structures, and both parents care for the young. Chicks are capable of hunting mice within a week of fledging, and juveniles disperse widely.

Black-shouldered Kites are found across most of mainland Australia and Tasmania, favouring open habitats such as grasslands, farmland, lightly wooded country, and coastal areas. They are often seen perched on exposed branches, fence posts, or power lines, scanning for prey. The species is highly adaptable, benefitting from agricultural landscapes and often increasing in number during mouse plagues. They are active throughout the day, with dawn and dusk being prime hunting times.