White Tailed Kites are often seen hunting the marshlands along Schollenberger Park and Ellis Creek.
February 19, 2018, 9:34am - It was a cold, clear, still morning as I slowly walked a trail leading from Ellis Creek to Schollenberger, I looked to my left toward the west, scanning for Northern Harriers hunting the wetland fields alongside. I make it regular practice to stop frequently and look all around, including behind me. As I looked away from the wetlands to my right I was surprised to find this White Tailed Kite perched at my eye level about fifty feet away. The kite seemed very at ease with my presence as she was warming up in the morning sun so I stopped in place and captured the moment.
February 19, 2018, 9:34am - I was treated to a few nice poses and couple of short flights looping back to her chosen tree.
February 19, 2018, 9:34am - If you look closely from the eye to the bill you may be able to discern a razor-thin streak of light extending the length of the bill. I believe this occurred due to the angle of the morning sun coming from behind and above the kite’s eye at such a sharp angle that the light was focused into a laser-like beam onto the bill.
February 19, 2018, 9:35am - This certainly is one pretty bird.
February 19, 2018, 9:16am - This shot is pretty soft on focus but I really like the flight posture and I always favor those primary feather tips curled and separated. I like the dark background too, so I’m posting this shot.
February 19, 2018, 9:16am - Showing off clever footwork, great balance and keen wing skills, this kite was very calm as it completed a lengthy series of moves to accomplish this landing.
November 4th, 2018, 8:43am - This mated pair of White Tailed Kites took a break from hunting and was resting comfortably in a willow tree. They have a good view of their hunting fields from this perch and they always have sharp eyes.