For the Benefit of Mr. Kite...

White-tailed kites are beautiful and graceful raptors that are endemic to California. About 100 years ago, they were almost wiped out, as farmers erroneously thought they attacked chickens (they were called chicken hawks back then) and there was demand for their white feathers. Fortunately, they have made a comeback, though today, they are threatened due to habitat loss. Therefore, seeing a young, newly fledged kite successfully hunting is a great sight.

I came across this bird while hiking in a local regional park, Dry Creek Regional Park. It was perched in the top of a tree, dining on a vole or field mouse.

The brown markings on the breast indicate that this is an adolescent kite; the adults don't have these markings.

Kites capture their prey and transport them to the top of a tree to eat, away from other predators.

Even while eating, kites are aware of their surroundings and will often stop to look around.

At this point, the kite had come close to finishing its meal.

I personally find their eyes to be quite fascinating, with that rich golden color.

It soon flew off, but showed how it hovers while looking for prey.

The talons are pointed down, ready to drop and catch their prey.

They can hover in mid-air, while scanning the ground for motion. While they prefer voles and field mice, they will also go for lizards and large insects.