Western Bird Guide: Birds of the Rockies and West to the Pacific

by Charles K. Reed

WHITE-TAILED KITE.

328. Elanus leucurus. 16 inches.

This species may be recognized by its light bluish gray mantle, black shoulders and white tail. It is a very active and graceful bird, feeding upon insects and reptiles, and small birds and mammals.

Nest.—Is usually made of sticks, weeds and leaves, placed well up in oaks or in willows beside the rivers. The eggs are creamy white, profusely blotched and spotted with reddish brown (1.65 × 1.25).