BLACK KITE PROJECT
Milvus migrans govinda
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govinda is a subspecies of Milvus migrans and can be differentiated from its relatives from its dark rufous- brown pattern,with variable white crescent at primary bases on under wing and a pale band across the median coverts in the upper wing. Cere and tarsi ranges in the shades of yelllow, influenced by their diet, age and sex.
Shallow tailed fork is the characteristic of the species. Juvenile is distinguished by broad whitish or buffish streaking on the head and underparts. It has a shrill,almost musical whistle, which can be heard as a WIR-R-R-R-R.
Subspecies is gregarious throughout the year and mainly inhabits around urban and semi urban setups
REFER TO SOUND TRACK BELOW FOR CHARACTERISTIC WHISTLE
lineatus is larger than govinda, with broader wings and generally more whitish patch at base of primaries. Subspecies shows pronounced darker mask (thus a.k.a black - eared kite), paler crown and throat. Belly and vent are also paler in comparison to govinda.
Juvenile is more heavily streaked.
Cere and tarsi ranges in the shades of pale aqua.
lineatus makes a descending scaled, squealing whistle.
It selects nesting areas in mountains,open country areas:near water.
REFER TO SOUND TRACK BELOW FOR CHARACTERISTIC WHISTLE
Milvus migrans lineatus
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Source : Birds Of the Indian Subcontinent - Helm Field Guides,Oxford University Press