Swallow-tailed Kite

Swallow-tailed Kite spend the majority of their time aloft, where they exhibit exceptional aerial agility, capturing prey on the wing without needing to flap extensively. The species is adapted for soaring and adeptly maneuvers using their distinctive forked tails. Vocalizations become prominent when swallow-tailed Kite are disturbed or engaged in intraspecific conflicts. Demonstrating monogamy, breeding pairs often form during migration or maintain bonds across seasons. They defend compact nesting territories by performing silent circling flights overhead, vigorously chasing trespassers with loud calls. 'Neighborhood' nesting allows for social interaction, and even nonbreeders participate in the community by offering food and nesting material, although such overtures are typically rejected by nesting females. In addition to nesting in close proximity, swallow-tailed Kite also tend to roost communally, sometimes in large congregations, especially as they prepare for migration.

Swallow-tailed kites are not listed as endangered or threatened by the federal government in the United States. They are listed as endangered by the state of South Carolina and as threatened by the state of Texas. They are listed as "rare" by the state of Georgia. The Center for Birds of Prey in Charleston, SC has an ongoing effort to track sightings within the state. Anonymous reports can be made at https://stki.thecenterforbirdsofprey.org or by telephone. They will also send you the summary of the years reported sightings if you leave them your contact information. Destruction of habitats is chiefly responsible for the decline in numbers. A key conservation area is the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge in Florida. As of 2016, populations have seemed to stabilize and even show increasing trends. Successful habitat restoration and management has allowed these birds to reestablish nesting populations in areas of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.