What is the Origin of the Name Black Kite?

The Black Kite is named 'Tobi' because it flies almost constantly while awake. Another theory suggests that its excellent vision, which allows it to see far distances, led to the name 'To-mi,' which evolved into 'Tobi.' These names are based on the bird's characteristics. The scientific name of the Black Kite is 'Milvus migrans' in Latin, where 'Milvus' means kite, and 'migrans' means wandering. This might be because its flying pattern looks like wandering. In kanji, the Black Kite is written as '鳶.' The character above the bird means 'arrow,' possibly because the kite dives like an arrow when flying. The kanji and scientific names reflect the Black Kite's behavior and appearance.

Why Do Black Kites Live Where They Do?

Many people have seen Black Kites near the sea, but they also inhabit various other environments. They live in high mountain forests, low flat farmlands, river mouths, rivers, marshes, lakes, and even urban areas. They can adapt to a wide range of environments. However, they are often found near the sea because there is plenty of food. The availability of food likely attracts them to coastal areas. Black Kites fly almost constantly while awake, rarely flapping their wings. They use wind currents, specifically updrafts, to fly, conserving energy. Their large size and light weight relative to their wingspan allow them to glide easily. Coastal areas provide plenty of wind, which might also explain their presence there. Black Kites sometimes form flocks while resting or flying. Unlike other hawks, which are usually solitary or paired, Black Kites forming flocks is unusual. However, these flocks do not involve mutual aid or shared feeding; they are more a loose association of nearby individuals.

What Do Black Kites Eat?

Hawks are generally carnivorous, eating small animals and fish. Black Kites are similar but often eat carrion. This might surprise some people. They do eat live prey like frogs, lizards, mice, snakes, and fish, but their diet primarily consists of carrion. On the coast, they might eat dead fish washed ashore. In urban areas without fish, they eat garbage or food left by humans. Their adaptable diet makes them more omnivorous than strictly carnivorous. This diet reduces competition with other hawks but increases conflict with crows, which have similar feeding habits. Black Kites have excellent vision, able to spot food from high in the sky. Their eyesight is said to be seven times better than that of humans, allowing them to dive at high speed to catch food. This rapid dive can make it difficult for people to notice the kite's approach, which can be intimidating when eating outdoors. Despite their scavenging habits, Black Kites help clean up carrion and garbage, earning them the nickname 'cleaner bird.' While some people might find them frightening, others appreciate their role in the ecosystem.

How Do Black Kites Reproduce?

Black Kites breed from March to May, building nests in trees, large trees on mountains, and cliffs. Their nests are made from dried branches, paper, string, and animal hair. This variety of materials reflects their adaptability to different environments. After building the nest, they lay 2-3 eggs, with a two-day gap between each egg. The first egg is incubated immediately, resulting in a slight difference in hatching times, creating sibling relationships. The eggs hatch after about 30 days, with the chicks growing rapidly. They leave the nest at about 40-60 days old, reaching nearly the same size as adults. At this stage, it can be difficult to distinguish them from their parents. Unlike other hawks, which prioritize the first-hatched chick, Black Kites care for all their chicks equally. This inclusive care might be due to their varied diet.

Is It True That Black Kites' Name is Used for Various Things?

Black Kites' name is used for various objects, professions, and colors. First, 'kite' in kite flying is derived from Black Kites. The English name 'Black Kite' resembles the appearance of kites flying in the sky. This similarity led to the use of the word 'kite' instead of 'tobi' to avoid confusion in Japanese. Next, the coat worn with traditional Japanese clothing is called 'tonbi.' Its name comes from the resemblance to a Black Kite spreading its wings. '鳶職 (tobishoku)' refers to workers who perform tasks at heights. The tools they use include a 2-meter-long device resembling a kite's beak, called 'tobiguchi.' This tool's name also derives from 'tobi.' Lastly, 'tobi-iro' is a color name, referring to a reddish-brown hue resembling the Black Kite's feathers. The Black Kite has been familiar to Japanese people for a long time, influencing various names.

Is It True That There Are Songs and Proverbs About Black Kites?

The Black Kite is featured in children's songs, legends, and proverbs. In children's songs, 'Tonbi' describes the kite's flight. Another song, 'Yuyake Tonbi,' portrays the kite flying in the sunset, evoking a slightly melancholic feeling. In the anime 'Inakappe Taisho,' the opening theme starts with a Black Kite's call. This call symbolizes rural areas, where Black Kites are more commonly heard than in urban centers. Proverbs featuring Black Kites include 'A Black Kite gives birth to a hawk' and 'A Black Kite snatches the fried tofu.' The former means that ordinary parents can produce extraordinary children, reflecting the lower rank of kites among hawks. The latter describes suddenly losing something valuable, based on the kite's habit of snatching food from humans. In Japanese mythology, the golden kite appears in the 'Nihon Shoki,' helping Emperor Jimmu by blinding his enemies with its light, symbolizing victory. Ancient Greek scholars also noted that while Black Kites scavenged, they never took offerings to the gods, indicating a sense of morality. While Black Kites have both positive and negative connotations, their presence in Japanese culture shows their long-standing relationship with people.

Do Black Kites Take Human Food?

Black Kites are known to take human food, but they were originally wary of humans. Over time, they adapted to living near humans, sometimes attacking small dogs and cats. Why did this change occur? Several factors contributed to this change. As natural habitats declined due to urbanization, Black Kites struggled to find food in the wild. They adapted by seeking food in human environments, leading to an increase in their population compared to other hawks, which could not adapt as easily. Human feeding also played a role. Coastal areas, popular with tourists, provided opportunities for kites to steal food or be fed by people. This positive reinforcement taught them that being near humans means easy food. While Black Kites are adept at taking food without harming people, their sharp talons can cause injuries. To reduce negative interactions, avoid eating in areas with kites, or use shelters to eat safely. Understanding these behaviors can help reduce fear and appreciate Black Kites' adaptability.

Animal Article

Black Kite

Have you heard of the bird called 'Black Kite' or 'Tobi'? Both names refer to the same bird, and it is correct to use either. Biologically, it is known as 'Tobi.' You often see them flying near the sea. Some people might find them intimidating. Let's introduce the Black Kite.