Open-country raptors

Black Kite

Milvus migrans

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An Australian Black Kite flies towards the camera with broad wings spread and its tail turned.
Charles J. Sharp (opens in a new tab) · CC BY-SA 4.0 (opens in a new tab)Adelaide River, Northern Territory

In focus

Sharing the rising air

The Black Kite is an adaptable bird of Australia’s open landscapes. Dark plumage, long angled wings and a shallowly forked tail create a recognisable silhouette. Sometimes seen circling together on rising air, these birds bring movement to the skies above plains, waterways and inland communities.

Where to look

Widespread across mainland Australia, including eastern inland and northern landscapes.

More about this species (opens in a new tab)

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