Indian Birds 
151. Haliastur indus: The Brahminy Kite. 
(F. 1228), J. 55), (- V-) 
Of all the birds of prey this is perhaps the 
easiest to identify in its adult state. The 
head, neck, breast, and upper abdomen are 
white, the shaft of each white feather being 
black. The remainder of the plumage is a rich 
chestnut, almost maroon. 
The young are very like the common kite in 
appearance, but may be distinguished when on 
the wing by the fact that the tail of the 
Brahminy is always rounded, while that of the 
kite is more or less forked. 
This species is rare in the Punjab, common 
everywhere else. In Madras it sometimes 
swoops down and carries off a snipe that has 
been shot by a sportsman. Its cry is a peculiar 
squeaking wail. (Illus. B. D., p. 190.) 
152. Milvus govinda: The Common Pariah 
Kite. (F. 1229), (J. 56), (V-) 
Description of this ubiquitous bird is un- 
necessary. His long tail, slightly forked at the 
tip, suffices to distinguish him at a glance from 
all other raptorial birds. (Illus. B. D., p. 182; 
also B. P., p. 148.) 
153. Circus macrurus: The Pale Harrier. 
(F. 1233), J. 51), (+1V.) 
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