The Red Kite

Milvus milvus

This graceful bird of prey is only found in Western Europe and nowhere else in the world.

During medieval times it was the default urban bird in London swooping down scavenging for scraps.

After nearly becoming extinct in Britain, the Red Kite is on the comeback due to the recent and very successful reintroduction scheme.

There are now around 1,600 pairs soaring our skies.

Despite their impressive size their main food is carrion and worms.

But as scavengers they are susceptible to poisoning.

According to the Welsh Kite Trust, the Red Kite was voted Wale’s favourite bird.