How to identify the White-winged Kite

To correctly identify the White-winged Kite (Elanus leucurus), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

35-43 cm (14-17 in)

Wingspan

88-102 cm (35-40 in)

Weight

250-380 g (8.8-13.4 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are predominantly white on the head, underparts, and tail. The back and upperwings are pale grey. Distinctive black patches are present on the shoulders (carpal joints) and the primary wing feathers are black, visible in flight. The tail is short and square, entirely white or with a faint grey central streak.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Small, sharply hooked black beak with a yellow cere.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Bright red eyes in adults, becoming duller in juveniles.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Yellowish-orange legs and feet with black talons.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Bright red eyes, prominent black shoulder patches, and a pure white tail are key identification features. Its buoyant, almost tern-like flight and characteristic hovering are also highly distinctive.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles have a brownish wash on the head and breast, often with streaking. The back and upperwings are browner than adults, and the black shoulder patches are less defined. The eyes are duller, often yellowish-brown, and the tail may have a dark subterminal band.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Juveniles gradually acquire adult plumage over their first year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are generally similar in plumage, though females tend to be slightly larger and heavier than males.

Key field marks

• Plumage. Look for the striking contrast of pure white underparts and head with a pale grey back and upperwings. The prominent black patches on the shoulders (carpal joints) are diagnostic.
• Tail. Observe the short, square, and entirely white tail (or with a very faint central grey streak in some adults). This distinguishes it from other raptors.
• Eyes. Note the bright red eyes in adults, which are very distinctive. Juveniles have duller, yellowish-brown eyes.
• Flight Style. Watch for its characteristic hovering behavior, often facing into the wind, with wings held in a V-shape. Its flight is buoyant and light, almost tern-like.
• Perching. Often perches conspicuously on exposed branches, utility poles, or fence posts, providing good views.

Explore the White-winged Kite