kites, regarded as one of North America's most graceful birds on the wing.

The large birds of prey, on their way to US breeding grounds from Central and South America, are two feet long.

They have been sighted over Gibbs Hill and over the golf courses at Port Royal, Castle Harbour and Mid-Ocean.

Bermuda Audobon Society president Mr. Andrew Dobson said there could be four birds in the Island -- a record number.

One spotted on March 1 was the earliest recorded spring visitor, he said.

The birds catch lizards, frogs and large insects, often eating them in flight.

"It would be rather appropriate if they stay until the end of the month for kite-flying,'' Mr. Dobson said.