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Swallow-Tailed Kites Still Struggling on Islands Post-Ian
Although swallow-tailed kites (Elanoides forficatus) have had a challenging time finding suitable nesting trees on Sanibel post-Hurricane Ian, some pairs still attempted to nest on the island this year.
In partnership with the Avian Research Conservation Institute (ARCI), the City of Sanibel’s Natural Resources Department, and a team of dedicated volunteers, SCCF monitors nesting swallow-tailed kites throughout the breeding season each year (typically March through June).
Early in the season, 15 previously known swallow-tailed kite nest locations were checked, but birds were only present at three. As the season progressed, a total of four nests were confirmed active and incubating.
Of those four nests, only one was successful in having a chick make it to fledging age.
“Though the causes of failure of the others are unknown, crows were observed aggressively harassing several of the incubating adults on multiple occasions, and a great horned owl nest was reported in the vicinity of two of the nests,” said SCCF Shorebird Biologist Audrey Albrecht.
About Swallow-Tailed Kites
This unmistakable bird is known for its remarkably forked tail, black-and-white plumage, and soaring flight pattern.
“The structure of the tail and wings allow them to maintain flight while capturing insects and small invertebrates from the air and treetops,” Albrecht said, adding that kites will also eat small vertebrates like lizards, snakes, frogs, or even small bird nestlings or eggs.
Around late summer, swallow-tailed kites begin to prepare for migration to return to their wintering grounds in South America. As many as 4,000 swallow-tailed kites congregate at pre-migration roosts to rest and eat as much food as possible to get ready for their long journey.
By conducting aerial surveys of these roosting sites, ARCI collects long-term population data on swallow-tailed kites, including accurate numbers for nesting and hatching kites in Florida each year.
To account for the kites that do not use these pre-migration roosts, ARCI relies on community science.
From July 15 to Aug. 10, the public can help monitor swallow-tailed kites by reporting their sightings. If you would like to contribute to this important research, you can submit your observations here.