Black Kite (Milvus migrans)

✨ Key Features

  • Brown plumage with lighter streaking

  • Slightly forked tail (key ID feature)

  • Long wings with fingered tips

  • Often seen soaring or circling

🌏 Habitat

Found across most of Australia, especially in:

  • Open country and grasslands

  • Wetlands and river systems

  • Coastal areas

Often seen:

  • Circling overhead or gathering near fires and food sources

⚡ What Makes It Special

Known for following fires to catch fleeing prey—earning the nickname “firehawk” in some regions.

🧠 Summary

A common soaring raptor with a forked tail, often seen circling over open landscapes and wetlands.