Red Kite

The Red Kite is a striking bird of prey with reddish-brown feathers, a pale grey head, and a deeply forked tail that twists as it flies. Its underwings have noticeable pale patches near the tips. The wingspan can reach up to 175 centimetres, giving it a graceful and light flight as it soars and glides with its wings held in a shallow V shape. The species was once hunted almost to extinction in Britain, but successful reintroduction efforts have helped populations to recover across much of England, Wales, and Scotland. The Red Kite is also found widely across mainland Europe and parts of North Africa. Red Kites prefer open countryside with scattered trees and are often seen flying over valleys and farmland. They eat a variety of food, including dead animals, small mammals, and earthworms. They often gather at feeding stations when food is provided. Their mewing calls are most commonly heard during the breeding season.