What is a characteristic of young Mississippi Kites?

Young Mississippi Kites exhibit banded tails and streaked bodies, which are distinctive features that set them apart from adults. In their juvenile stage, these raptors have a more mottled appearance, showcasing streaks on their bodies and distinct banding on their tails. This helps to camouflage them in their natural surroundings, which is crucial for their survival as they learn to hunt and navigate their environment.

The solid gray bodies, characteristic of adult Mississippi Kites, do not apply to the young birds. Juveniles do not have the size advantage; in fact, they are generally smaller than the adults as they are still in the early stages of development. Lastly, they do not exhibit brightly colored wings; this trait is not typical of Mississippi Kites at any age, as their coloration is more subdued to aid in blending into their habitats. Therefore, the defining characteristic of banded tails and streaked bodies accurately reflects the physical appearance of juvenile Mississippi Kites.