Red kites have recovered spectacularly from extinction in England and Wales but face ongoing welfare threats from lead poisoning via contaminated carrion.
Lead poisoning in red kites causes progressive neurological damage, weakness, inability to fly, and death. Affected birds found on the ground appear disoriented and are unable to flee — clear indicators of significant welfare compromise. Wildlife rescue organisations such as REES (Red Kite Recovery) treat poisoned kites with chelation therapy; recovery is possible if detected early enough. The scale of lead poisoning in scavenging raptors is substantial. The solution is adoption of lead-free ammunition by all hunters and stalkers — particularly for deer carcasses and gut piles that kites and other raptors access. Regulatory action is progressing but voluntary transition is faster.