Most North and Central American breeders winter in South America where the species is resident year round.

Habitat degradation and changes in wetland hydrology have caused the range to shrink in the US to just coastal regions of the southeastern and southwestern US, roughly an 80% decline in population.

Swallow-tailed kites are considered migratory raptors and during the spring months often move from areas in Central and South America to breed.

[12] Traveling thousands of miles these birds move towards the most suitable nesting habitat found within coastal wetlands between the Americas.

Satellite-telemetry has allowed researchers to track movements of individual birds over the years and has yielded data that demonstrates some migration journeys longer than 10,000 mi (16,000 km).

Land located within migration routes is thought to be another concern for the kites, as deforestation and habitat degradation in Central and South Americas can have adverse affects as the birds move to breed.

The birds are considered one of the most graceful fliers seen in America and often spend the majority of their lives scouring high tree tops for lizards, small mammals, and insects.

The morphology of the swallow-tailed kite's wing and tail structure allows the bird to glide effortlessly for long distances.

[8] Swallow-tailed kites are not listed as endangered or threatened by the federal government in the United States as of 2024[update].

[21] The Center for Birds of Prey in Charleston, South Carolina has an ongoing effort to track sightings within the state.

[citation needed] Successful habitat restoration and management has allowed these birds to reestablish nesting populations in areas of Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina.