This species enjoys a wide range across Asia and Australia. They have been seen hassling other birds to make them drop their prey allowing them to eat it. This is then eaten while on the wing (in flight) allowing them to avoid their prey being stolen by other birds. Prey is skimmed off the surface of the water. Groups of these birds may gather at carcasses. During fires they will pick off any animals which are escaping the fire. They have also been observed to scavenge for discarded scraps at rubbish dumps. These birds perch on a tree branch and watch out for any potential prey items on the ground below. They will feed on fish, frogs, insects and carrion. As the dolphins herd the fish they can pick them off easier. These birds are seen taking advantage of dolphins which are chasing fish. They have shown an ability to swim well if they fall in to the water and can then take off without any trouble. How does the Brahminy Kite survive in its habitat? An average weight for the species is between 325 and 650g (12-23oz). They have a wingspan of between 1.2 and 1.3m (4-4.25ft) across. Females tend to be marginally larger than the males.Īn average female will measure 50cm (19.5in) long compared to the 45cm (17.5in) long male. To help eat their prey they have a short, yellow bill which is hooked at the end.īoth male and female share a similar feather pattern. These birds have weaker claws when compared to those of other raptors. Their legs and feet are un-feathered with claws used for clasping their prey. At the end of the body is a short tail with a pale tip. They have rich chestnut colored feathers on the back which stand out against the stark white color of the breast and head. The brahminy kite is a striking bird owing to its contrasting feather pattern. Here they raise their chicks until they are able to fledge and head out on their own. Pairs will build a large nest which is reused for several years. Instead they will harass other birds and aim to have them drop any prey they are carrying which they can then steal and consume. These birds typically do not hunt their own food as they struggle to grasp it with their weak claws. Here they are typically associated with water where they will hunt for fish and scavenge other food such as crustaceans. Brahminy kites are found across parts of southern Asia and the coastline of Australia.
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