Definition

1. Noun:
   • A grey-and-white American kite of warm and tropical regions: Elanus leucurus is a species of raptor, a bird of prey, characterized by its pale grey and white plumage. It is native to the Americas and is typically found in open habitats like grasslands, savannas, and agricultural areas in warm climates.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted an Elanus leucurus hovering over the field.
  • The Elanus leucurus is known for its graceful flight and its habit of hunting rodents.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific or ornithological contexts: The term is used precisely to refer to this specific species, distinguishing it from other kites in the genus , such as the Black-shouldered Kite ().
  • The study focused on the migratory patterns of Elanus leucurus.

Variants and Related Words

• White-tailed Kite (n): This is the common English name for .
  • The White-tailed Kite is a familiar sight in California's farmlands.
• Kite (n): A general term for various birds of prey in the family Accipitridae, known for their long wings and forked tails, which includes the genus .
  • Several species of kite can be seen soaring in the thermals.

Synonyms

• White-tailed Kite: The standard common name.
• American Kite: A descriptive synonym referencing its geographic range.

Related Phrases

• To hover like a kite: Describes a bird, particularly a kite, hanging motionless in the air by facing into the wind.
  • The Elanus leucurus can hover like a kite while scanning the ground for prey.

Noun

1. grey-and-white American kite of warm and tropical regions