3 European Kite Species

There are currently three types of kites in Europe, two of which belong to the genus Milvus, while one belongs to the genus Elanus. Compared to other raptors in Europe, European kites are generally medium-sized raptors.

Similar to buzzards, European kites have relatively small talons for their size, and specialize in hunting smaller prey, such as small rodents, reptiles, and amphibians. In addition to this, they are also partial to eating carrion, and they even scavenge at human garbage disposal sites.

Red Kite

Red Kite

by Markus Berger

Black-shouldered Kite

Black-shouldered Kite

by Markus Berger

Black Kite

Black Kite

by Markus Berger