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History	Breeding

Juvenile Kite & Crow © Mike Read

It is primarily a scavenger and an opportunist; it profits from sheep carrion but is not capable of opening up sheep carcasses by itself and must wait until more powerful birds, such as ravens or buzzards, have made the first inroads before attempting to feed.

It is, however, a predator in that it takes a wide variety of live prey, ranging from earthworms to small mammals, amphibians and birds.

THREATS

The eggs of the Red Kite have been targetted by thieves - collectors have risked heavy fines to obtain them. This selfish activity is one of the reasons it took so long for the population of kites to re-establish itself and start expanding again in Wales.

Illegal use of poisoned baits, not set specifically for kites, has been and continues to be another major threat to the bird.

Please remember Red Kites are still rare and vulnerable. Disturbing them during the nesting season can cause great damage. Do not try to find nests. It is a serious offence to knowingly disturb kites at the nest site.

For more information on these beautiful birds visit www.redkitecentre.co.uk