Mississippi Kites Nesting in Imperial Parks

By Sophia Cortez-Holmes Longshore
 The Holyoke Enterprise
Summer in Imperial brings a flurry of outdoor activity, and this year, that includes some special visitors: Mississippi Kites. These graceful birds of prey have chosen several of Imperial’s parks as nesting sites, and while their presence adds to the area’s natural charm, park-goers are urged to be cautious and respectful of their space as according to the City of Imperial on Facebook.
Mississippi Kites are slender, elegant raptors in the Accipitridae family. Known for their narrow, pointed wings and buoyant flight, they often soar in circles, appearing to float effortlessly in the sky. Their diet consists mainly of large insects, which they skillfully catch while in flight. Their presence in our parks is a testament to the adaptability and growing population of this once-rare species in Nebraska.
Currently, the kites are in their nesting season. During this time, they become highly protective of their young and may swoop at people or pets who venture too close to their nests. This defensive behavior, though startling, is temporary and normal. By keeping a respectful distance from nest sites and avoiding disturbing the trees where they reside, visitors can help ensure a peaceful coexistence with these birds.
The Mississippi Kite’s range has expanded dramatically over the past few decades. Historically found in the southern United States, their breeding range now includes much of the Great Plains and even stretches into the northeastern U.S., with recent nesting records as far north as New Hampshire and Connecticut. Nebraska, once outside their typical range, now hosts breeding populations in multiple cities including North Platte, Lincoln, McCook, Scottsbluff, and Ogallala.
Their expansion into Nebraska began in earnest in the early 1990s. While only four sightings were recorded in the state before 1974, Mississippi Kites are now observed annually. In 1991, birds were seen in Ogallala, and by 1994, 11 individuals were counted and two nests were confirmed. Since then, their numbers have steadily increased, especially in urban and suburban areas where tall trees and open spaces provide suitable nesting habitat.
Mississippi Kites prefer to nest near water and in open woodlands or prairies with scattered trees. Interestingly, they sometimes nest colonially, which may explain the increasing number of sightings in clustered locations. The species’ adaptation to urban settings is likely influenced by human landscaping practices, including the planting of trees and hedgerows across the plains, which provide new nesting opportunities.
As summer wanes, these birds will begin to gather in large flocks in preparation for migration. Their journey south spans thousands of miles and takes them through multiple states and into South America, with wintering grounds in Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. Along the way, they face many challenges, including weather, exhaustion, food scarcity, and disease.
To protect both park visitors and the birds, the City of Imperial urges everyone to be mindful while enjoying outdoor spaces. Avoid approaching nesting areas, observe the birds from a distance, and keep pets on leashes to prevent disturbances. With care and consideration, we can all share our parks with these incredible seasonal residents and continue to enjoy the rich biodiversity that makes our community special.
Dinsmore, Stephen J, and W Ross Silcock. “First Nesting Records for Mississippi Kite in Nebraska.” DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln, 2025, digitalcommons.unl.edu/nebbirdrev/594/. Accessed 30 July 2025.
Geiser, Julie. “Mississippi Kite Comeback | Nebraskaland Magazine.” Nebraskaland Magazine, 26 June 2023, magazine.outdoornebraska.gov/stories/conservation/mississippi-kite-comeback/. Accessed 30 July 2025.