The Black Kite, or Milvus migrans in scientific nomenclature, is a diurnal bird of prey belonging to the Accipitridae family. Recognisable by its dark, brownish plumage and elegant silhouette in flight, this bird is a regular and beneficial presence in the Bordeaux vineyard landscape, particularly at Château Cazebonne.

This magnificent glider is characterised by an impressive wingspan, reaching up to 1.50 metres, and a slightly forked tail, shallower than that of its cousin the Red Kite, which is a crucial distinguishing feature for its identification. This tail is a true rudder, giving it remarkable agility in the air. Its long, fingered wings allow it to exploit thermal updrafts with great efficiency, thereby minimising effort during its aerial patrols.

The seasonality of the Black Kite in our vineyards is closely linked to its migratory cycle. It is a summer migrant that arrives in Europe in the spring, generally between March and April, to nest and breed. It then leaves our regions between August and September to winter in Africa. During this period of presence, it is frequently observed flying over the plots, particularly near watercourses or wetlands adjacent to the vines, where it finds its prey.

At Château Cazebonne, Black Kites particularly appreciate forest edges, copses, and large solitary trees for nesting. These birds of prey are also attracted by the presence of ponds and streams, which are essential to their diet. Sightings are frequent above our plots, highlighting the importance of these natural habitats preserved within our wine estate to support biodiversity. Their presence is a testament to a balanced ecosystem that is conducive to their development.

The ecological role of the Black Kite is highly significant. As an opportunistic predator, it is a natural pest controller and actively participates in regulating populations of small rodents, such as voles and field mice. It also feeds on insects, reptiles, fish, and carrion, thereby contributing to the sanitation of its environment. Its presence is a valuable indicator of the good environmental health of our terroirs.

The interaction of the Black Kite with the vine is largely beneficial. By regulating populations of small mammals that can sometimes cause damage to young shoots and vine roots, it contributes to crop protection without human intervention. Its diet does not include grapes or any other element of the vine, making its role purely positive for the winegrower committed to an agroecological approach. At Château Cazebonne, we are delighted to observe the regular presence of this bird of prey above our plots, living proof of our commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly viticulture.

Château Cazebonne is committed to an approach aimed at restoring and preserving biodiversity within its vineyard, thereby creating a favourable habitat for species such as the Black Kite. This long-term work, this quest for authenticity and singularity, including the replanting of forgotten grape varieties to revisit the taste and future of Bordeaux wine, is immortalised in the book "Bordeaux, une histoire de cépages". We invite you to download the digital version, test your wine knowledge with our oenological quizzes, and discover our cuvées, the fruit of this passion and commitment, by visiting the Cazebonne shop. Other birds of prey, such as The Common Kestrel: the sentinel of the Cazebonne sky, also contribute to the balance of our ecosystems.