Elanoides forficatus

Biological Overview

Habitat
Large areas of wetlands and swamps all around the southeastern U.S.

Diet
Flying insects like dragonflies, wasps, and small vertebrates like lizards, tree frogs, and snakes. They eat while flying, often snatching prey from treetops

Role in Ecosystem
A critical aerial predator crucial for regulating insect populations

Behavior
These birds are known for performing acrobatics in the sky. They are skilled predators.

Human Impact

Swallow-tailed kites have been severely impacted by human activity, resulting in a dramatic decline of their population, which used to span 21 states, but is down to just 7 states. Habitat destruction due to deforestation and chemical pollution has dropped their number of breeding pairs. Increased predation has also lowered their numbers. Thankfully, now these birds are protected.

Creative Exploration

I am very hungry, so I fly out of my nest and go scavenging for food around the area. I swoop down on my prey in the pond. I miss my prey and fall into the water. I swim out of the water and I fly into the air, back to my nest – bringing nothing back. I start to feel annoyed about how hungry I am, so I try again. I don’t miss this time! I succeed and head to my home. I am so happy that I was able to get some food!

Luke Stewart, Boyd Hufnagel, Dylon Wray

Book 5