Red kites have recovered dramatically in the UK, and supplementary feeding stations have played a role in supporting local populations while raising some welfare debates.
Red kite welfare is largely positive given the remarkable population recovery, but specific threats remain. Lead poisoning from ingestion of game carcasses and offal containing lead shot causes nervous system damage and is a documented cause of adult and juvenile mortality. Secondary poisoning from rodenticides affects kites feeding on poisoned rodents. Supplementary feeding stations provide reliable food sources but can alter natural foraging behavior and create aggregations that facilitate disease transmission. Illegal killing including poisoning and shooting remains a persistent threat in some areas. Collision with wind turbines and power lines causes fatalities. The welfare of such a successfully recovered species depends on sustained protection from these preventable threats.