Black Kite

The Black Kite is a highly adaptable, medium-sized raptor belonging to the family Accipitridae. It is widely distributed across Europe, Africa, Asia, and Australia.

• Appearance: Despite its name, its plumage is actually dark brown with a lighter, streaked head. It has a wingspan of 140–150 cm and is best identified in flight by its long, distinctively forked tail which it twists constantly to steer.
• Behavior & Diet: Unlike many strict predators, black kites are highly opportunistic scavengers. They frequently gather in large numbers around landfills, fish markets, and urban areas. In cities across India and Japan, they are famous for boldly snatching food straight out of people's hands.
• The "Firehawk" Phenom: In Northern Australia, they are known colloquially as "firehawks". They have been documented picking up smoldering sticks from wildfires and dropping them into dry grass to flush out small prey—making them one of the few non-human animals known to intentionally spread fire.