Mississippi Kite

The Mississipi Kite (Ictinia mississippiensis) breeds in SE USA; winters in South America. In spring and fall, it migrates through Costa Rica in small to large flocks.

36cm (14”), 280g. Long, pointed wings; long, black, slightly notched tail. Head and underparts light gray; mantle dark gray; flight feathers black except upper surface of secondaries which is white.  Iris red; bill and cere black; feet yellowish. Young: Similar to young Plumbeous Kite but the streaking below is brown, not slaty.