Brahminy Kite (also known as the Red-backed Sea-eagle)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Accipitriformes, Family: Accipitridae, Genus: Haliastur, Species: Haliastur indus · Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites) · Secondary flight feather (Remiges)
Species
Haliastur indus
Feather Type
Secondary flight feather (Remiges)
Family
Accipitridae (Hawks, Eagles, and Kites)
Shape
Slightly asymmetrical with a rounded tip. The vane is broad and maintains a relatively uniform width until the distal taper, characteristic of an inner wing feather.
Size
Estimated 15-18 cm (approximately 6-7 inches) in length. This is consistent with the secondary feathers of a medium-sized kite which typically range from 14 to 20 cm.
Rarity
Common; it is one of the most frequently seen raptors in coastal tropical Asia and thrives in human-altered landscapes.
Color & Pattern
Rich rufous or chestnut-orange base color on both vanes. The inner vane displays 7-9 distinctive dark charcoal or blackish transverse bars (banding). The base of the feather transitions to a clean white.
Barb Structure
The distal portion is primarily pennaceous with tightly interlocked barbs for flight stability, while the proximal base (near the calamus) shows plumulaceous, downy texture for thermoregulation.
Texture & Surface
Smooth, stiff, and somewhat glossy on the dorsal surface. The leading edge is firm to resist air pressure, while the overall texture is typical of a diurnal raptor designed for soaring.
Description
This feather belongs to the Brahminy Kite, a medium-sized raptor easily identified by its striking white head and breast contrasting with a deep chestnut-colored body and wings. In flight, they show a rounded tail and broad wings with black primary tips. They are scavengers and hunters, often seen circling over water or harbors.
Key Features
Diagnostic chestnut-orange coloration combined with dark internal banding on the inner vane and a white base. The rounded tip and secondary proportions distinguish it from long, pointed primaries.
Habitat
Coastal areas, estuaries, mangroves, rivers, swamps, and inland wetlands. Often found near human settlements, docks, and rice paddies.
Geographic Range
Found across the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and Australia. It is largely a resident species with some local movements tied to water availability.
Condition Notes
Good condition overall. There is minor fraying at the distal tip and a small split in the mid-vane (rachis stress), suggesting it may be a naturally molted feather from a mature adult.
Interesting Facts
In Indonesia, it is known as Elang Bondol and is the official mascot of Jakarta. In Hinduism, it is considered the contemporary representation of Garuda, the sacred bird of Vishnu.
Ecological Role
Acting as both a scavenger and a predator, they help clean up carrion in coastal areas and control populations of small fish, amphibians, and insects.
Similar Species
The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) has similar banding but lacks the vibrant chestnut-orange hue, appearing more dull brown. Juvenile White-bellied Sea Eagles are much larger and lack the specific rufous-to-white transition.