The Swallow-tailed Kite is found throughout the U.S sketchily at best; it is most abundant in the Gulf States, in particular Florida. They are considered one of the most graceful of birds, as well as one of the fastest.
At 24 inches in length, the Swallow-tailed Kite is the largest Kite in America. The Kite is pure white underneath; the tail, body and wings are glossy black, with violet or greenish luster. The head, neck and nape are also pure white. The young are similar to the adults except for the head and neck, which are lightly black-streaked, and the wing feathers, tipped and bordered white.
The Kite attacks mainly insects, amphibians and reptiles, and has not been observed to attack birds and mammals. They are fiercly protective of their nest, threatening and attacking any and all intruders.
The nest is built in treetops near sources of water, made of twigs, sticks, hay and dead moss. 2 to 4 eggs are laid, white and spotted cinnamon. Both parents incubate the eggs, but no one is for sure how long they incubate (Most other kites incubate for 21-24 days). Other than their fiercely defensive nature, not much is known about the Swallow-tailed Kites.