Whistling Kite (Haliastur sphenurus) | Photos and ID

LCLeast ConcernScavenger

WetlandPlatform nestLarge · 753 g

ID tip

The whistling kite ranges in size from 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 in), with a wingspan between 123 and 146 cm (4 ft 0 in and 4 ft 9 in). Weights range from 380 to 1,050 g (0.84 to 2.31 lb) an average of 600 to 750 g (1.32 to 1.65 lb) for males and 750 to 1,000 g (1.65 to 2.20 lb) for females. As with most raptors, females are larger and heavier than males; though there is considerable overlap between the sexes, females can be up to 21% larger and 42% heavier. Southern birds are also larger than those found in the tropics. Male and female plumages are the same. Voice: This is a noisy species, calling regularly in flight and while perched—even while at the nest. Its most common call is a clear descending whistle, often followed (less often preceded) by a rapid series of rising notes.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

When to see the Whistling Kite

One bar for each month, and every month is filled: this bird is recorded here in all twelve. The wide bar is July, the month with the most records.

Where to see the Whistling Kite

Regular range

The map shades 4 countries with regular records. Everything unshaded has no records. Countries are listed below the map.

Australia Papua New Guinea New Caledonia Indonesia

About the Whistling Kite

The whistling kite is a medium-sized diurnal raptor found throughout Australia, New Caledonia and much of New Guinea. Also called the whistling eagle or whistling hawk, it is named for its loud whistling call, which it often gives in flight. Some authorities put this species in the genus Milvus, despite marked differences in behaviour, voice and plumage between this species and other members of that genus.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Easily confused with

Brahminy KiteHaliastur indusThe bird measures 45–51 cm (18–20 in) in length, 109–124 cm (43–49 in) in wingspan, and weighs 320–673 g (11.3–23.7 oz).

Side by side: Brahminy Kite vs Whistling Kite

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