Black Kite vs Red Kite

Black Kite

Milvus migrans

Large734 gWoodland

Black kites can be distinguished from red kites by their slightly smaller size, less forked tail (visible in flight), and generally dark plumage without any rufous. The sexes are alike though the male is a little smaller and less aggressive (this is the case in most birds of prey). They weigh 735 grams (25.9 oz) on average. The upper plumage is brown, but the head and neck tend to be paler. The patch behind the eye appears darker. The outer flight feathers are black and the feathers have dark cross bars and are mottled at the base.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Recorded by Sonothèque ADVL · Call · Genêts, Manche, Normandie, France · CC0

Photo: Tim Sträter · CC BY 2.0

Red Kite

Milvus milvus

Large1.1 kgShrubland

Red kites are 60 to 70 cm (24 to 28 in) long with a 175–195 cm (69–77 in) wingspan; males weigh 800–1,200 g (28–42 oz), and females 1,000–1,300 g (35–46 oz). It is an elegant bird, soaring on long wings held at a dihedral, and long forked tail, twisting as it changes direction. The body, upper tail and wing coverts are rufous. The white primary flight feathers contrast with the black wing tips and dark secondaries. Apart from the weight difference, the sexes are similar, but juveniles have a buff breast and belly.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Recorded by Nicolas Martinez · Song · Rodersdorf, Dorneck, Solothurn, Switzerland · CC BY 4.0

Photo: Tim Sträter · CC BY 2.0

Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Black Kite and Red Kite.