Annual migration brings Mississippi Kites back to nest at Vance

  • Published
  • By Mark Buthman
  • CSC Applied Technologies Civil Engineering
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The Mississippi Kite, a small but aggressive member of the raptor family, has returned to established nests on base.

The Kites are migratory birds that are protected by federal laws. They winter in South America and often migrate in groups of 20 to 30, arriving at their nesting sites in mid-April to early May.

The Kite nests at Vance are located around the Child Development Center, Youth Center, the old Central National Bank, the Fitness Center, just south of the Plains Pool and in the northeast area of the base park.

In late May and throughout June, Kites lay two white eggs. Both parents incubate the eggs and feed the young. The eggs hatch in about 30 days. The young leave the nest and are able to fly approximately 30 days after hatching.

Like many other birds, Mississippi Kites may dive at animals and people that venture near their nests. The diving behavior is an attempt to protect their nests and young from potential threats.

This protective behavior is most prevalent after the eggs hatch and increases if the intruder acts scared or harasses the birds. After the young leave the nest, the diving behavior ceases.

Signs are posted in areas on Vance where Mississippi Kites have been observed nesting.

Avoiding areas around the Kite nests from mid-June through mid-August is one of the best methods to prevent Kites from diving at people. If the nesting area cannot be avoided, wearing a hat should help prevent birds from striking a person.

Techniques that are helpful in preventing Kites from making physical contact while dive-bombing you include:
  • Waving your arms
  • Holding objects such as sticks or umbrellas near your head
  • Avoiding areas around nests as much as practical during July and August
  • Wearing a hat
  • Looking directly at the bird as it dives -- this will intimidate the bird
Despite their aggressive tendencies, Mississippi Kites are beautiful and fascinating birds. By respecting their territory and taking proper precautions, the Vance community can enjoy watching these birds as a part of Oklahoma's diverse wildlife.

For more information, call 213-7344.