Amazing Kite Migration

Well I was sitting here at home this morning when my mom got home and asked what the strange birds with the black wings were all doing outside. So I take a walk out the front door and see Swallow-tailed Kites going by. Now mind you I use kites plural because there wasn't just one kite, not even two or three, but HUNDREDS. I can only figure they have been driven out of their everglades home by Fay's flooding and are seeking shelter here in the Keys. Needless to say I ran in the house, picked up my camera, got in the car and chased them down my island.

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What a spectacular sight. Great images.

Great catch Billy. Smart birds too. Do you think they know which way to go by instinct?

Great series. Very well done indeed.

Thanks guys.

I did some quick research online and found out that they migrate from central and south florida to spend the winter in brazil every year. I can't believe I've never noticed it before because it is quite a site.

Wow Billy steller shots. thanks for sharing.

that was a wonderful series

Amazing series Bill! I imagine that was a sight to see...thanks for sharing these.


Sharon

That is a lot of Birds Well Documented Billy!!!

Good stuff Bill! The topside and head on shots are really something.

The SKTs stage in a roosting area each August prior to migrating to South America. The roost on Fisheating Creek near Lake O typically holds 2K or so SKTs each year. They will begin to return in early April next year.

Bill thanks for sharing these. I've never heard of this behaviour before althought I certainly don't know much abot kites.