By FHSU University Communications
HAYS, Kan - Each spring, Mississippi Kites, graceful raptors the size and shape of a peregrine falcon, make the long journey to Kansas from their winter homes in South America to nest and raise their young. The campus community and visitors should be aware that once the raptors begin to nest, they can be very protective of the grounds around their nesting sites.
While humans pose little to no threat, there are other clear and present dangers to a nesting family of kites. These include strong Kansas winds and thunderstorms, raccoons, owls, and cats. Thus, a nesting colony of kites can become overprotective of the area around their nests.
There are several ways to lessen the likelihood that you will get “swooped” by Kites this summer.
- Stay clear of any nesting sites you can identify.
- Keep your eyes on the skies and look for nearby soaring Kites as you walk about campus.
- Wear a hat or carry an umbrella.
- And, if you think you are about to get swooped, flail your arms over your head to disrupt their strike.
Mississippi kites are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, which means the birds, their eggs, and their offspring cannot be moved, captured, hunted, or killed. This includes the nest as well.
Mississippi Kites spend their spring and summer months on the high plains. The birds perform a valuable service by removing insects that can harm crops. They feed primarily on insects like cicadas and grasshoppers. They occasionally supplement their diet with frogs, small birds, and mammals. They tend to return each year to the nesting area they used in previous years.
An expert flyer, the Mississippi kite often catches and consumes its insect prey in flight. The raptor is primarily gray with orange-red legs and feet, a pale light gray head, black wings tipped with a broad white patch, and deep red eyes. Yes, the bird has red eyes.
Towards the later part of the summer, the Kites and their young will begin to depart the High Plains to make the long southward migration back to South America.