Miss Kite

We have been privileged for the past several years to have nesting Mississippi Kites return in May from their wintering in South America to our neighborhood.  For about 3 years they returned to the same nest high in a tree just behind our house.  It was my joy to watch them, through a scope, mate, care for the nest, and finally watch the babies pop their heads up and grow into beautiful juveniles ready for the long migration south.  The nest disappeared last year, probably because they aren't known as great nest builders.  But, they still come back to the area and I see them circling the house and often hear their distinct call.  I of course drop what I'm doing and run out to welcome them.  Today, I witnessed a little mating behavior and this lovely girl hanging out in a nearby tree.  They will be around until late August, when the group will kettle in the sky with raucous cries and then take off for South America.  Extra photos of miss kite, B with son Nick who came over for a Mother's Day brunch, and B trying to introduce Leif to the water (he's not buying it!)