The Black Kite is a medium-sized raptor that appears almost black from a distance but is actually dark brown with light brown and rufous markings. It is found in a variety of habitats from timbered watercourses to open plains, often near outback towns, and usually in small groups. The Black Kite preys on small animals like lizards, mammals and insects as well as scavenging at tips in outback towns. Black Kites nest in isolated pairs or small colonies, performing an aerial courtship display before building a stick nest lined with soft material in tree forks close to the trunk where the female incubates the eggs.

1. BLACK KITE

2. The Black Kite is a medium-sized
raptor (bird of prey). From a
distance, it appears almost
black, with a light brown bar on
the shoulder. The plumage is
actually dark brown, with
scattered light brown and rufous
markings, particularly on the
head, neck and underparts

5. The Black Kite is found in a
variety of habitats, from
timbered watercourses to
open plains, and is often
observed in and around
outback towns. Although it is
more normally seen in small
groups

20. The Black Kite preys on
lizards, small mammals and
insects, especially
grasshoppers. It also is a
scavenger, and frequents tips
in outback towns.

23. Breeding:
Black Kites nest in isolated pairs or in small,
scattered colonies. As with other raptors, a
ritualised aerial courtship display is
performed by both sexes. This involves loud
calling, grappling of feet (talons), and
tumbling or cartwheeling. The nest is a bulky
cup of sticks, lined with softer material, and is
placed in the fork of a tree branch (generally
close to the trunk). The female incubates the
eggs while the male provides food.