Black-eared Kite

Common name for a subspecies of the Black Kite (fig.), with the scientific name Milvus migrans lineatus. It is distinct from the nominate race by a whiter face and throat (fig.), and more whitish on the underside of the primaries. It is also larger and of a deeper colour than Milvus migrans. The tail, which is brown above and pale with brown bars below, is less forked than with other species of Black Kite, such as the Pariah Kite (fig.). The bird is a migratory visitor throughout mainland Southeast Asia, southern China and northern India, and a resident breeder in northern Vietnam's Ha Long Bay (fig.). See also WILDLIFE PICTURES (1), (2) and (3). 回