The yellow-billed kites are back home on Fairview. They migrate every year to Central-East Africa from late March around the rainy seasons, and come back home for the drier seasons around Summer time.
The yellow-billed kite usually reaches a length of 50 to 60cm, with a wingspan ranging from 150 to 180cm. Its plumage is predominantly brown, with slightly darker flight feathers, while the head and body are a lighter shade of brown. The tail is forked, a typical feature of kites. Unlike the black kite, which has a black bill, the yellow-billed kite is easily recognised by its striking yellow beak.
Inhabiting in a variety of environments, including savannas, grasslands, woodlands, and areas near lakes and rivers, they are highly adaptable, often seen near human settlements and scavenging in urban areas.
Recognised for their graceful, buoyant flight, often gliding in wide circles while searching for food below, these kites are fairly social, frequently seen in pairs or small groups, especially around plentiful food sources.
The breeding season varies by region, with nests typically built in trees and often reused over multiple seasons. They lay between 1 and 3 eggs, with an incubation, which lasts about a month, is primarily handled by the female, while the male provides food for her during this period.
The yellow-billed kite mainly scavenges, feeding on carrion, insects, and discarded food. It often visits garbage dumps and follows fires to catch prey fleeing the flames.
Along with scavenging, it also hunts small mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects. Watch out for your baby chicks!
They are recognised for their opportunistic feeding habits and have even been seen stealing food from other birds, including larger prey like eagles.
Look out for these birds around Fairview now that they have returned.
Top Photo: Canva
Bottom Photo: Brian Williams
