ID Keys: Primarily gray with black tail, white patch on upperside of inner
wing (sometimes visible in flight)
Most common on the
southern Great Plains, despite the name. The Mississippi Kite primarily
feeds on large insects, most of which are caught in a graceful gliding
flight. Not nearly as territorial as some raptors, loose breeding colonies
and communal roosts are common in parts of the South.
Habitat
During breeding season, prefers tall trees
adjacent to open country. Often nests in shelterbelts on the southern
Great Plains.
Diet
Primarily feeds on large
insects. Will also eat rodents, small birds, frogs, snakes, and lizards.
Behavior
Catches insects while in flight, often
eating them in flight as well. Will sometimes follow farm machinery
for insects stirred up, or hunt along the edges of grass fires to do the
same. Will occasionally feed on carrion/carcasses.
Breeding
Non-breeder in South Dakota
Song
Generally silent, but does make whistling alarm
calls.
Migration
Summers through parts of the southern
United States. A long-distance migrant, Mississippi Kite's winter in South
America.
