About the Hook-billed Kite
The hook-billed kite, is a bird of prey in the family Accipitridae, which also includes many other diurnal raptors such as kites, eagles, and harriers. It occurs in the Americas, including the Rio Grande Valley of Texas in the United States, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and tropical South America.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
It is a mid-sized, slender raptor with a large hooked bill. There is extreme variation in bill size and plumage. Birds from beneath can look blackish or gray (especially males) and brown or brick-red (females) variously. This renders species identification at times extremely difficult. The downcurved hook at the tip of the beak is apparent on perched and low-flying birds. Weight can range from 215 to 397 g (7.6 to 14.0 oz) and length is 38–42 cm (15–16.5 in).
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Hook-billed Kite lives
Recorded as a rare visitor in St. Vincent & Grenadines.
When to see the Hook-billed Kite
Peak activity in November · a resident species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Wahlberg's EagleHieraaetus wahlbergiWahlberg's eagle is a medium-sized raptor, and the sexes are similar.
Brown Snake EagleCircaetus cinereusTheir plumage about the body is entirely a fairly dark, hazel brown, with some claims of a purplish sheen in certain light conditions.
Double-toothed KiteHarpagus bidentatusThe double-toothed kite is 29 to 35 cm (11 to 14 in) long with a wingspan of 60 to 72 cm (24 to 28 in).
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