Kite ID from Greece (1 Viewer)

[Apostolos_Tsio]

Hello everybody
Is this a Black kite (Milvus migrans) or a hybrid M. Migrans X M. Milvus??

 

[birdmeister]

Definitely not a pure Black Kite. My outsider eye would say this is a Red Kite, but I can't say it's not a hybrid for sure.

 

[cafe birder]

Looks fine for Red Kite to me but hopefully one of the raptor experts will give a definitive answer. I am only just become aware of how much Black Kites can vary and recommend this article so that you can decide for yourself https://subalpinebirding.com/blog/eastern-black-kites-in-europe-a-new-look

 

[Sangahyando]

It's a bit tricky, because the bird is unusually well lit from below, bringing out the rufous tones and making it appear more similar to Red Kite than it otherwise would be. The primary moult doesn't help. I wouldn't call this a Red Kite, at least not a "pure" one.

 

[Bitis]

It's a bit tricky, because the bird is unusually well lit from below, bringing out the rufous tones and making it appear more similar to Red Kite than it otherwise would be. The primary moult doesn't help. I wouldn't call this a Red Kite, at least not a "pure" one.

Agree, looks like a Black Kite to me too. I'm not familiar with hybrids (Black Kite x Red Kite) though.

 

[tconzemi]

it's a Black Kite indeed, one of these rusty birds more common to the east, wing formula, pattern of breast feathers, tail, heavily barred inner primariy flash all perfect for Black Kite

 

[birdmeister]

Glad more people have chimed in to correct me. A great-looking bird for sure.

 

[KC Foggin]

It sure is a beautiful image of this Kite!