Lophoictinia isura

(Square-tailed Kite)

FAMILY

Accipitridae

Species

Lophoictinia isura

Common name

Square-tailed Kite

Main colour

Rufous and dark brown

Distinctive feature

Outstretched ‘fingers’ of the wing are barred; body 50- 56 cm, wingspan to 156 cm

Campus

Townsville

Description

This kite has long slender wings which when outstretched display bars and the tail is square cut. The head, neck and underparts are rufous-brown with some streaks; wings are darker brown above. Legs and feet grey, bill dark-coloured, eyes pale. This relatively rare kite has been observed soaring over the canopy in the local area.