There are several species of raptors around, but in our area only two raptors regularly ‘hover’, i.e. flutter in a more-or-less stationary position while tracking prey on the ground. These are the Black-shouldered Kite and the Nankeen Kestrel. Both birds are relatively common.
Seen from below, the Black-shouldered Kite is mostly white with the outer half of the wings being grey. It is around 35 cm long, with a wingspan around 90 cm. From above, the kite is white with black(!) shoulders. It hovers and then plunges onto prey feet first. There is a Black-shouldered Kite that can often be seen at Coogoorah Park.
Black-shouldered Kite
The Nankeen Kestrel is slimmer and slightly smaller than the kite. From below, it is mostly cream/buff, but has a dark band at the end of its tail. From above, it is rufous. The kestrel dives onto prey headfirst.
Nankeen Kestrel
After all that, hopefully the photos will help!
James Orton
Photos: Katie Pahlow