Red Kite Welfare: Illegal Poisoning and Persecution in Scotland

Red kites reintroduced to Scotland since 1989 continue to face illegal poisoning and shooting that causes significant welfare impacts and threatens population recovery.

Key Facts

Red kites were extinct in Scotland for centuries before reintroduction beginning in 1989
The reintroduced population has grown to over 300 pairs but persecution continues
Illegal poisoning using alpha-chloralose, carbofuran, and rodenticides causes significant mortality
RSPB investigates dozens of suspected poisoning incidents involving red kites annually
Poisoned kites suffer agonising deaths from seizures, respiratory failure, or internal haemorrhage

Welfare Considerations

Red kites killed by illegal poison suffer acutely and at length. Carbofuran causes rapid convulsive death from respiratory failure. Anticoagulant rodenticide poisoning causes prolonged internal bleeding over days. Alpha-chloralose causes hypothermia and central nervous system depression. Birds that survive sub-lethal poisoning may be permanently neurologically impaired. Shooting causes traumatic injury and death. The suffering inflicted on these birds through deliberate illegal killing represents a serious animal welfare crime.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected illegal poisoning or persecution of raptors to RSPB or Police Scotland
Support the RSPB's Investigations team documenting wildlife crime in Scotland
Advocate for stronger penalties for wildlife poisoning and a vicarious liability law
Donate to organisations monitoring red kite populations and investigating persecution
Engage with Raptor Persecution UK and similar organisations raising awareness