Snail Kite

Rostrhamus sociabilis

The snail kite is a bird of prey within the family Accipitridae, which also includes the eagles, hawks, and Old World vultures. Its relative, the slender-billed kite, is now again placed in Helicolestes, making the genus Rostrhamus monotypic. Usually, it is placed in the Milvine kites, but the validity of that grouping is under investigation.

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Low-Light Telephoto Systems

Identifying specific features of the Snail Kite requires high-contrast magnification. Check out the top-rated 8x42 optics.

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Raptor ID Pocket Reference

Compact pocket-card format — print & fold. Covers plumage, field marks, and song mnemonics.

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