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In 1997, GDNR initiated their
Swallow-tailed Kite Observational Survey by soliciting reports
of Swallow-tailed Kite sightings from birders, hunters, fishers,
and interested citizens, as well as DNR personnel and other
biologists. Prior to 1997, we knew very little about the
Swallow-tailed Kite in Georgia and no nests had been officially
documented. The Observational Survey has been an out-and-out
success, yielding more than 2400 records over the years. In
addition, it served as the basis for nest-searching, and roost
and foraging surveying, that drove several research projects
studying Swallow-tailed Kite ecology in Georgia.
Beginning in 1999, GDNR contracted
to undertake research projects studying nest distribution, nest
success, habitat use, prey identity, sex ratio, juvenile and
adult survival, and causes of nest failure. This research, which
resulted in the first documented nest in Georgia, and the
monitoring of 204 nests to date, has been used in developing
conservation and management recommendations essential to
maintaining or increasing kite numbers in Georgia. In 2006, GDNR
expanded their survey efforts to the entire coastal plain, in
order to obtain a more accurate picture of Swallow-tailed Kite
breeding distribution in Georgia. This effort was a resounding
success, with nesting documented along the Florida panhandle as
far west as Brooks County in the Withlacoochee and Alapaha river
systems, and west of the Altamaha River headwaters up the Oconee
and Ocmulgee Rivers.
Most Swallow-tailed Kites in Georgia
nest on private lands, including industrial and non-industrial
private timber lands, as well as family holdings. In addition,
nest areas, roost sites, and foraging aggregation areas
fluctuate annually, in response to local water conditions, food
resources, and habitat alterations. Therefore, private lands
conservation of Swallow-tailed Kite habitat also is critical to
their long-term survival in Georgia. Georgia DNR’s ability to
document Kite breeding locations, develop management tools, and
work with landowners would not have been possible without the
data collected from the Swallow-tailed Kite Observational
Survey, and ensuing research projects. Your input over the years
has made Swallow-tailed Kite research and conservation in
Georgia not only possible, but also a resounding success.
Thanks to all for your interest
and efforts, and best for continued kite watching over the
years!
Diana Swan
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