Black-winged Kite vs European Honey-buzzard

In short

The Black-winged Kite is a small, pale raptor with striking black shoulder patches and red eyes, while the European Honey-buzzard is larger, with a longer tail and a more hawk-like appearance. The kite is more compact and often seen hovering, whereas the honey-buzzard has a more elongated body and is typically seen soaring.

Identification tips

1. Look for the black shoulder patches and red eyes on the Black-winged Kite. 2. Note the hovering behavior of the kite, which is distinctive. 3. Observe the longer tail and soaring flight of the European Honey-buzzard. 4. Consider the habitat: open areas for the kite, wooded areas for the honey-buzzard. 5. Use size and structure: the kite is smaller and more compact than the honey-buzzard.

Size

The Black-winged Kite is smaller and more compact, while the European Honey-buzzard is larger with a longer tail and wingspan.

Plumage

Black-winged Kite has a pale gray body with distinct black shoulder patches and red eyes. European Honey-buzzard has a more variable plumage, often brownish with a barred tail and lacks the kite's black shoulder patches.

Behaviour

Black-winged Kite frequently hovers in place while hunting, a behavior not typical of the European Honey-buzzard, which is more often seen soaring.

Habitat

Black-winged Kite prefers open habitats like savannas and grasslands, while European Honey-buzzard is found in wooded areas and forests.

Voice

Vocalizations are not a primary distinguishing feature in the field for these species.