Kites are a group of medium to large birds of prey that are found on every continent except Antarctica. They are members of the family Accipitridae, which also includes eagles, hawks, and Old World vultures. Kites are known for their sharp vision, powerful wings, and strong talons, which they use to catch and kill prey.
There are many different species of kites, which vary in size, appearance, and habitat. The red kite (Milvus milvus) is a common species of kite found in Europe and Asia. It is a medium-sized bird with a wingspan of up to 2 meters (6.5 feet) and a body length of up to 60 cm (24 inches). The red kite has a reddish-brown body and wings, and it feeds on a variety of prey including small mammals, birds, and reptiles.
Other species of kites include the black kite (Milvus migrans), which is found in Africa, Asia, and Europe, and the white-tailed kite (Elanus leucurus), which is found in the Americas. Kites are found in a variety of habitats including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. Many species of kites are considered to be at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, hunting, and other human activities. Conservation efforts have helped to increase the populations of some kite species, but many species are still considered to be at risk.