Scientific Name: Elanoides forficatus

A graceful, uniquely shaped raptor with long, narrow wings and a deeply forked tail. Black-and-white overall, with shining blue-gray upperwings. Usually seen in flight as it soars and glides while twisting its tail. Its wingbeats are deep, fluid flaps. Found over a variety of wooded habitats, with a preference for wetter areas around rivers and ponds. Feeds mainly on insects captured on the wing.

The Swallow-tailed Kite is one of the most elegant birds of prey in Costa Rica’s skies. It rarely perches for long, spending much of its day effortlessly gliding high above forests and waterways. With remarkable agility, it can snatch dragonflies, wasps, and even small reptiles directly from the air or treetops without landing. During migration, small groups may gather, creating spectacular aerial displays as they circle and drift together over the landscape.