This Snail Kite (Rostrhamus sociabilis), probably an immature, was present near Bentsen S.P., Hidalgo Co., Texas along a resaca on private property from 17-29 May 1998. Bob Rozinski and Wendy Shattil had access to a private ranch and were photographing water birds at the location. The kite showed up on several occasions and they observed it feed on crayfish. Fortunately, they were able to take several photos of the bird . There is only one previous accepted Texas record of this species from 1977 at Lake Alice. Snail Kites are resident in Mexico within 350 miles of the Texas border; it is likely this individual was from Mexican populations rather than Florida. Although Florida birds are thought to feed primarily on Apple Snails, Mexican birds are known to eat crayfish regularly. Observers in south Texas should be alert for this species along waterways. Any record of this species in Texas needs thorough documentation.
Photo © by Bob Rozinski & Wendy Shattil
Photo © by Bob Rozinski & Wendy Shattil