Ictinia mississippiensis
Length: 10-15 in Wingspan: 30-35 in Weight: 0.5-1 lbs
Identification:
Medium gray back and wings, lightening to light gray on head and secondaries. Dark striped tail.
Distribution:
Range map by Neotropical Birds
Cool Facts:
Mississippi Kites in the western part of their range often nest colonially, an unusual practice for a raptor. These birds have also been observed building their nests near wasp nests, which may protect chicks against climbing predators.
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References:
Bird on the Move 