Wildlife

Wild Red Kite Poisoning Welfare Risk

Red kites have recovered remarkably in the UK but secondary poisoning from rodenticides and illegal persecution remain welfare threats.

Key Facts

Red kite populations have recovered from near-extinction to over 10,000 birds through reintroduction
Secondary poisoning from rodenticide-laced carcasses is a significant ongoing mortality cause
Illegal persecution through shooting and poisoning continues in some areas
Lead poisoning from game carcasses affects red kites eating hunter-shot prey

Welfare Considerations

Red kites experiencing rodenticide or lead poisoning suffer progressive neurological deterioration, weakness, and death. Illegal persecution causes sudden traumatic death or injury. Protecting recovered populations from these preventable welfare harms requires both legal enforcement and best practice uptake.

What You Can Do

Avoid using first- or second-generation rodenticide baits outdoors
Report red kite persecution or poisoning to RSPB and police
Support switch from lead to non-toxic ammunition in game shooting