Mississippi Kite - Sioux County

[Tucker Lutter]

Hello Birders, 

   I saw a Mississippi Kite at the intersection of Avenue M and 12th St. in Hawarden, IA this evening, June 7, 2026. I was having dinner and just about choked on my hot dog when I looked out and saw the bird carrying a stick! I am hesitant to confirm that it was building a nest as it was alone and I have not seen a second invidual. I saw a kite in town on May 19 this year, but I thought it was just passing through.

Here are some photos:

https://ebird.org/checklist/S354291330

Tucker J. Lutter

Hawarden, IA