/
Typically a species of inland deserts, it occasionally wanders closer to the coast.
VIC: Vulnerable; WA: Rare
Sensitive species — location data may be restricted
Indigenous: Wugamaabaydaa, Black-Breasted Kite
At a glance
FamilyHawks, Eagles, and Kites
SizeLarge
RarityCommon
HabitatOpen country, coast, woodland edge, river corridors, and thermal-rich skies over fields or ridgelines.
Best timeMost reliable in Northern Territory from June to September.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by Dan Ashdown
Range map
Range map
2682visible hotspots
12476visible records
6states
SparseModerateDense hotspot
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
A large dark raptor. In flight it shows a very short stubby tail, and has large pale wing panels. Holds wings up high in a slight V-shape while soaring.
Behavior
Typically a species of inland deserts, it occasionally wanders closer to the coast.
Gallery