The brahminy kite (Haliastur indus) is characterised by its chestnut-hued plumage and contrasting white head. There are four recognised subspecies of the brahminy kite, with the South Asian population classified as Haliastur indus indus. These kites are typically found along coasts and in wetlands, where they primarily scavenge for dead fish and other carrion, though they occasionally hunt live prey, such as bats. With increasing urbanisation, they have also been observed scavenging from trash in villages and townships. Breeding takes place between December and April, with pairs often returning to the same nest site each year. Females lay a clutch of two bluish-white oval eggs and are solely responsible for incubation, while males generally assist with nest-building and feeding.