Red kites recovered from near-extinction in Wales and through reintroduction across the UK. Their ongoing welfare requires continued vigilance against poisoning and persecution.
Red kite welfare remains threatened by illegal persecution despite legal protection. Poisoning causes a particularly distressing death - rodenticides cause internal haemorrhage and neurological symptoms over hours or days. Secondary poisoning from rodenticide-treated animals is an ongoing welfare concern that wildlife charities continue to document. Celebrating the red kite's recovery must not obscure these ongoing threats. Robust enforcement, reporting, and public reporting of suspected poisoning incidents are critical welfare interventions.