Hi Ed

The situation surrounding the "Black-shouldered" kite complex is confusing,
but general agreement is emerging. Many moons ago they were all lumped
together under the banner of Black-shouldered Kite. Clements though, and now the
bulk of modern authorities separate out the three principle forms into distinct
Species; They are

White-tailed Kite-Elanus leucurus-ALL OF THE AMERICAS;
Black-winged Kite-Elanus caeruleus [this is what you saw]-ALL OF EURASIA;
Black-shouldered Kite which is actually the Australian Kite-Elanus
axillaris; AUSTRALIA

So what you saw should be called the Black-winged Kite. Rest Assured though
that you have a new lifer! Don't get me started on the races...

Best wishes,
Blake Matheson
Carmel California & Portland Oregon



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