Swallow-tailed Kite vs Mississippi Kite

In short

The Swallow-tailed Kite and Mississippi Kite are both elegant raptors, but they can be distinguished by their tail shape and flight behavior. The Swallow-tailed Kite has a deeply forked tail and rarely flaps its wings, while the Mississippi Kite has a more squared tail and is more likely to be seen flapping.

Identification tips

1. Look for the deeply forked tail of the Swallow-tailed Kite, especially when soaring. 2. Note the uniform gray plumage and more squared tail of the Mississippi Kite. 3. Observe flight behavior: Swallow-tailed Kites soar with minimal flapping, while Mississippi Kites may flap more frequently. 4. Consider habitat: Swallow-tailed Kites prefer wetlands, while Mississippi Kites are often seen in urban areas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Swallow-tailed Kite appears larger due to its long, deeply forked tail.

Plumage

The Swallow-tailed Kite is striking with its black and white plumage and deeply forked tail. The Mississippi Kite is more uniformly gray with a squared tail. Juveniles of both species can be more challenging to differentiate.

Behaviour

Swallow-tailed Kites are known for their graceful soaring and rarely flap their wings, often rotating their tail to maneuver. Mississippi Kites, while also graceful, are more likely to flap their wings and can be aggressive near their nests.

Habitat

Swallow-tailed Kites are typically found over wetlands and forests in the southeastern U.S., while Mississippi Kites are more adaptable, found in urban areas and open woodlands, especially in the Great Plains.

Voice

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