The Red Kite is the largest bird of prey in the UK with an enormous wingspan. A male can measure up to 110cm (around 3.5 feet), making it noticeably larger than most other raptors! A female can be slightly smaller, around 100cm (3 foot). Despite its size they are agile birds and incredible acrobats which makes them fun to watch in flight. They also have a distinctive red shoulder patch when in flight which is why they are commonly referred to as 'the red kite' or 'kites'.
Red Kites make a beautiful sight against the backdrop of a clear blue sky, and they're definitely worth a visit if you get the chance.
21 000 – 25 000
Population
Near Threatened (NT)
IUCN Classification
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Fact 1
They mainly eat carrion and worms, but opportunistic and will occasionally take small mammals.
Fact 2
The males and the females are similar in color.
Fact 3
They hunt on the wing, soaring and circling over open ground.