Red kite
Milvus milvus milvus
Aves Milvus milvus milvus, commonly known as the Red Kite, is a striking bird of prey known for its distinctive appearance and elegant flight. It is a member of the family Accipitridae and is native to Europe, including the Comunidad Valenciana region in Spain.
The Red Kite is easily recognizable by its reddish-brown body, forked tail, and white patches under the wings, which are especially visible in flight. The head is a lighter greyish color, and its sharp, hooked beak is well-adapted for its diet.
- Size: Adult Red Kites typically measure 60-70 cm in length, with a wingspan ranging from 175 to 195 cm, making them one of the larger birds of prey in the region.
- Habitat: These birds are versatile in their choice of habitat but are most commonly found in open countryside, woodlands, and near bodies of water. In the Comunidad Valenciana, they can be seen soaring over fields and forests.
- Diet: The Red Kite is an opportunistic feeder, primarily scavenging on carrion, but also preying on small mammals, birds, and insects. They are known to take advantage of human-altered landscapes, foraging at landfill sites and other such areas.
- Behavior: Red Kites are known for their graceful, buoyant flight. They are often seen gliding and soaring with ease, making use of thermals to conserve energy. Social birds by nature, they sometimes form communal roosts, especially outside the breeding season.
- Conservation Status: Once endangered due to persecution and poisoning, conservation efforts have helped the Red Kite population to recover significantly. Today, they are protected under European law and are considered a success story in wildlife conservation.
In summary, the Red Kite is a magnificent bird of prey that captivates those who have the opportunity to observe it, and it plays an important role in the ecosystem of the Comunidad Valenciana.