Movement Patterns of the Black Kite (Milvus migrans) During Spring Migration over Rift Valley/Red Sea Flyway, Gulf of Suez, Egypt

Abstract

The aim of this study to follow up on the spring migration of the black kite (Milvus migrans) before crossing from the west bank of the Gulf of Suez opposite the South Sinai region, Egypt. Daily observations were carried out over the period 22 February - 12 May 2019, where 7,004 individuals (968 records) of BK were recorded. Most BK flight direction observed (46% NW and 17% SE) had a reversed direction of spring migration, which need to soar to gain height, and then return over and around the study area at higher altitudes to be able to cross the water barrier easily. The observed behavior of black kites is regularly shown in the study area despite long-term irregular weather conditions during the Spring, most of BK 66% were recorded during the prevailing northwardly wind. whereas, more than 43% of BK were recorded in low wind speeds, representing about 43% of all records, while less than 3% of birds recorded in high wind speeds, representing less than 6% of records.