SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that although swallow-tailed kites have had a challenging time finding suitable nesting trees on Sanibel post-Hurricane Ian, some pairs still attempted to nest on the island this year.

In partnership with the Avian Research Conservation Institute (ARCI), city of Sanibel’s Natural Resources Department and a team of volunteers, the SCCF monitors nesting swallow-tailed kites throughout the breeding season each year, which typically runs from March through June.

Early in the season, 15 previously known swallow-tailed kite nest locations were checked, but birds were only present at three. As the season progressed, a total of four nests were confirmed active and incubating. Of those four nests, only one was successful in having a chick make it to fledging age.

“Though the causes of failure of the others are unknown, crows were observed aggressively harassing several of the incubating adults on multiple occasions, and a great horned owl nest was reported in the vicinity of two of the nests,” SCCF shorebird biologist Audrey Albrecht said.

ABOUT SWALLOW-TAILED KITES

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION The single swallow-tailed kite chick to fledge on Sanibel this year.

The Sanibel-Captiva Conservation Foundation reported that the unmistakable bird is known for its remarkably forked tail, black-and-white plumage and soaring flight pattern.

“The structure of the tail and wings allow them to maintain flight while capturing insects and small invertebrates from the air and treetops,” she said, adding that kites will also eat small vertebrates like lizards, snakes, frogs, or even small bird nestlings or eggs.

Around late summer, swallow-tailed kites begin to prepare for migration to return to their wintering grounds in South America. As many as 4,000 swallow-tailed kites congregate at pre-migration roosts to rest and eat as much food as possible to get ready for their long journey.

By conducting aerial surveys of the roosting sites, the ARCI collects long-term population data on swallow-tailed kites, including accurate numbers for nesting and hatching kites in Florida each year. To account for the kites that do not use the pre-migration roosts, the ARCI relies on community science.

From July 15 through Aug. 10, the public can help monitor swallow-tailed kites by reporting their sightings. Observations can be submitted at https://form.jotform.com/241854595987175.

SANIBEL-CAPTIVA CONSERVATION FOUNDATION