Black Kite
(Milvus migrans)
The black kite is a bird of prey distinguished, as per its name, by its nearly uniform dark colour.
Description
The head is lighter than the body, while the tail — very mobile when closed — is clearly forked, representing the distinctive characteristic of kites. Males and females are very similar. Wingspan: up to 180 cm. Length: 58 cm.
Habitat
Black kites frequent lakes, rivers, and marshes, or even open country areas as long as there are forests with large trees or stone walls nearby. The former are frequented by kites in search of food and prey, while the latter are used for nest-building.
Observation in the Torbiera Reserve
According to its Latin name, this is a migratory bird, leaving for Africa around September and returning to nest in March. Especially in summer, it can be seen flying light and agilely above the water in search of food or perched on isolated trees.
