Milvus migrans govinda

(Sykes, 1832

Vernacular names
English : Black kite
French : Milan noir

Classification
Class : Aves
Order : Accipitriformes
Family : Accipitridae
Notes : 2 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults can grow to 66 cm in length for a weight of 1 kg. Slightly forked black tail. This subspecies is smaller than most, with more uniform dark brown plumage and less markings on wings and breast. Crown with rufous tinge.

Range and habitat
This subspecies occurs from India and Sri Lanka to south China and Malaysia. Species found in most of Eurasia, Central Indonesia and Australia. Occurs in grasslands, savannas, gardens, cities, woodlands, to 2000 m.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is one of the world’s commonest diurnal raptors. Locally it has declined because of persecution and collision with power lines.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

Back to “Hawks, eagles and relatives” page