News spread quickly in the southeast Michigan community this week when a Mississippi Kite was sighted at a local birding hotspot.

Typically seen in south-central United States, the slender, gray raptor seems to be enjoying meals of cicadas in the nature preserve.

And attracting birdwatchers from all over the state, including me, who are traveling to view the raptor with the long pointed wings.

I’ve watched the Mississippi Kite as it perched on a snag as well as when it flew overhead, often with a Red-shouldered Hawk nearby.

Life bird for me, and a beautiful bird to see!