Population Genetics of the White-tailed Kite

The Museum of Natural History is working with 40 other museums to help researchers solve the mystery of the White-tailed Kite.

White-tailed Kites were once common in California, Texas, and the southeastern United States; but then they were almost exterpated in the southeastern US.

Since the 1940's, the population has increased in the southeast. But researchers want to know what
sub-species of bird has moved into the area.

To determine this, DNA samples are being taken from White-tailed Kites in musems which are known to have come historically from the southeast. They are comparing that DNA information to samples from the birds living there today.

Click on Images below to see them BIGGER

Here is a bird being checked out for research!