The red kite (Milvus milvus) is a medium to large bird of prey, belonging to the family Accipitridae. This elegant raptor is recognized by its rufous plumage, contrasting white underwing flight feathers, and a deeply forked tail which it maneuvers with grace. The species is sexually dimorphic in size, with females being slightly larger than males.
Adult red kites measure 60 to 70 cm in length and boast a wingspan of 175–179 cm. Males typically weigh between 800–1,200 grams, while females range from 1,000–1,300 grams. The species exhibits a dihedral flight posture with long, angled wings and a distinctive long, forked tail that twists fluidly as the bird changes direction. The body, upper tail, and wing coverts are a rich rufous color, while the black wingtips and dark secondaries provide a stark contrast to the white primary feathers.
Red kites are often found in broadleaf woodlands, pastures, mixed farmland, valleys, and wetland edges. They are adept at navigating a variety of landscapes, from open countryside to urban fringes.
The red kite is native to the western Palearctic, with its breeding range primarily in Europe. Historically, the species also bred in parts of west Asia and northwest Africa, but these populations have largely disappeared. Today, red kites are most commonly found across Europe, from Spain and Portugal to central Russia, and from southern Scandinavia to southern Italy.