Wildlife

UK Buzzard and Red Kite Coexistence in Farmland

Welfare and conservation of common buzzards and red kites sharing UK farmland habitats.

Key Facts

Red kite reintroduction has been one of the greatest UK conservation success stories
Buzzards and red kites coexist across much of England and Wales
Both species are scavengers and opportunistic hunters in farmland habitats
Lead poisoning from shot game carrion affects both species
Both are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act

Welfare Considerations

Buzzards and red kites face parallel welfare risks from lead poisoning and illegal persecution, requiring both enforcement of legal protection and transition to lead-free ammunition.

What You Can Do

Support the transition to lead-free ammunition to protect both species
Report any evidence of raptor poisoning or shooting to police wildlife crime units
Advocate for strong enforcement of raptor protection legislation