Zoo Buddy: Mississippi kite!

MONROE, La. (KNOE) - Meet one of the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo’s Mississippi Kites!

These birds are mainly found along the Gulf Coast.

The zoo has two Mississippi kites near the entrance of the new Louisiana Purchase Exhibit.

They are primarily insectivores.

“Some Mississippi kites show a commensal relationship with several other species. For example, Mississippi kite nests are often found near or on the kite nests. The wasps probably provide protection to kites against climbing predators. Several smaller bird species, including sparrows, northern mockingbirds, and blue jays, often build nests on or near Mississippi kite nests,” posted the University of Missouri’s Zoological program.

The zoo is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. You can get tickets to feed the budgies, feed the tortoises, ride the boat, or ride the train at the front office. You can reach them at (318) 329-2400

You can also volunteer with the zoo. Contact the Louisiana Purchase Zoological Society through their Facebook page.

Click here for a breakdown of their prices.