Haliastur indus

Haliastur indus

(Brahminy Kite)

FAMILY

Accipitridae

Species

Haliastur indus

Common name

Brahminy Kite

Main colour(s)

Reddish-brown with white

Distinctive feature

The reddish body and white head and breast, body 45-50 cm

Campus

Cairns, Townsville

Description

This distinctive bird with white head and breast contrasting with the reddish-brown body is quite commonly seen flying around the area. The male is being smaller than the female. The short, rounded tail has a white tip. Legs and feet are pale blue, eyes dark brown, bill whitish.