Black-shouldered kite

Black-shouldered kite (Elanus caeruleus)

We know that the black-shouldered kite is breeding near the rice fields of La Janda, but only once we were lucky enough to see him there!

Black-shouldered kited are middle sized raptors and are relatively rare in south west Spain.

Although we, as usual, were quietly sitting in the "camo tent car", the black-shouldered kite felt somehow uneasy about our presence:

This sighting took place in January 2007. And I hope, that one day I can add some more photos!

At least we saw him once again on 9th of January 2010 at La Janda:

"Well I won't wait forever here on this traffic sign for you, while you adore and photograph these silly small birdies!" The much longed for black-winged kite looked a little bit grim and inpatient in our direction! We took our breath, because until now we only had seen him during all our visits to La Janda just one time.

And there he was sitting now and accepted, that we draw closer and could admire his red eyes:

But Mr. Black-winged kite was hungry and ...

... so he showed us ...

... how excellent he ...

... manage his skills:

But the prey must have quickly cleared away and ...

... so Mr. Black-winged kite turned away without having achieved anything to be somewhere further away more successful. We just had been enthralled to have seen this beautiful and seldom bird!

19.10.2011 - La Janda:

17.11.2011 - Campillos:

25.11.2011 - Doñana:

Birgit Kremer