Wildlife

Red Kite Population Recovery: A Conservation Template

The red kite recovery in Britain is one of the most successful wildlife reintroductions in European history.

Key Facts

Red kites were reintroduced to England from Wales and Spain in 1989 after being absent for centuries
UK red kite population grew from under 100 to over 4,600 breeding pairs by 2020
They have spread naturally across England from the original release sites in Oxfordshire and the Chilterns
Red kites are primarily scavengers feeding on carrion and earthworms
Illegal poisoning remains the leading human cause of unnatural death

Welfare Considerations

Despite recovery success, red kites still face significant welfare threats. Illegal poisoning using carbofuran and other substances kills birds that ingest poisoned bait. Secondary poisoning from anticoagulant rodenticides causes internal haemorrhage. Entanglement in hay bale twine kills birds that use it for nest construction. Disturbance at nest sites causes nest failure. The recovery creates complacency about ongoing threats that require continued vigilance.

What You Can Do

Report suspected poisoning of red kites to RSPB Investigation team immediately
Dispose of hay bale twine carefully to prevent entanglement
Support campaigns for restrictions on second-generation anticoagulant rodenticides
Maintain respectful distances at red kite nest sites to prevent disturbance
Donate to RSPB Poisoned Raptors campaign which prosecutes raptor crime