Swallow-tailed Kite

[nwfloridafalconfan]

Lying in bed listening to NPR this morning as a shadow crossed the window and I caught a fleeting glimpse of our elusive Springtime visitor.  Twenty seconds later, he/she glided by again at rooftop level, his/her wingspan filling the window.  I slipped outside with the camera and, though he didn't come nearly as close, I was able to capture this: http://www.afn.org/~afn02552/052111_0755.jpg  He/she circled and swirled up the creek bed, raising a chorus of alarms from the hawks nesting in that area.  A great way to start the day!

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Swallow-tailed_Kite/sounds    

[Kris G.]

Very nice!  Thanks for sharing!

[Paul Hamilton]

Thanks!  That is a graceful bird and a cool story.

Paul

[Donna]

One gorgeous bird and a very nice photo. Thank you for sharing.

[annieinelkhart]

AWESOME picture!  We began seeing one in Bonita Springs end of March, first of April!  Was in awe of the beauty!!  AND the size!  Never came around when the camera was anywhere near!     Can't wait to see it again next spring!  Will be watching for it this time!  Thanks for sharing!   

[nwfloridafalconfan]

And they come in pairs!!  Some video from this afternoon.  Best in 720p HD if your connection speed will allow.  Swallow-tailed Kites Flying 052111

[Donna]

OH wow is right!!! Very cool video. Lucky you all to see that. Thanks so much.

[nwfloridafalconfan]

Only a couple sightings of our springtime visitors this year, so I was surprised to see them today so late in the season.  Quite an aerial display when two Kites mixed it up with several buzzards.  Most of it was over by the time I found my camera, but here's a short video with the action directly in line with the sun.

kite_and_buzzards_061112

[Donna]

Hey, that was cool, even the sun gave it a bit of pizazz! Thanks

[annieinelkhart]

Here is (sort of a poor one) picture we managed to catch of one that shows up around Bonita Springs in early spring.  LOVE watching them!  Their tail allows such maneuverability and gracefully soaring!  We don't have them up north so really look forward to seeing them down there!

[MAK]

Here is (sort of a poor one) picture we managed to catch of one that shows up around Bonita Springs in early spring.  LOVE watching them!  Their tail allows such maneuverability and gracefully soaring!  We don't have them up north so really look forward to seeing them down there!

Nice! 

[Donna]

I have never seen one but they sure are cool looking! Love the tails! Thanks Paul & Annie.

[nwfloridafalconfan]

I love the way they just hang in the air....kind of like a kite!