Snail Kites
Snail kites are medium-sized birds of prey in the family Accipitridae. They are known for their specialized feeding habits, as their primary diet consists of apple snails. Snail kites are found in wetland habitats across the Americas, including southern parts of the United States, Central America, and South America.
These birds have a unique curved bill that is specifically adapted to extract the soft body of snails from their shells. They use their sharp talons and bill to capture and consume the snails, often hovering over the water surface to snatch them. Snail kites are highly skilled hunters and have also been observed using tools, such as sticks, to extract snails from their shells.
The population of snail kites faces threats due to habitat loss, pollution, and the declining populations of apple snails. Conservation efforts are being made to protect these birds and their wetland habitats to ensure their survival in the wild.
A snail kite diving for snail with its grace and elegance. (snail kite 0556)
A snail kite and its reflection. (snail kite 5679)
Snail kite looking for snail. (snail kite 3734)
A snail kite seconds before it entered the water. (snail kite 4782)
Snail kite just before impact. (snail kite 0954)
Snail kite and its reflection. (snail kite 4523)
Snail kite in the water as it looked for snails. (snail kite 4474)
Snail kite and its reflection just before entering the water. (snail kite 1913)
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