The black shoulder kite is a small raptor found in Australia. They have a wingspan of about 35 cm and are easily recognizable by their black plumage and red eyes. It is a distinctive bird, with black upper parts and a white head and underparts. These birds are also very efficient hunters, using their sharp eyesight to spot prey from afar. The black shoulder kite feeds chiefly on insects, but they will also eat small mammals, reptiles, and birds. These birds can often be seen hovering over open areas, scanning the ground for their prey. While they are mostly found in woodlands, black shoulder kites will sometimes venture into open areas in search of food. These birds are a common sight in Australia.