Red kite returns to Edinburgh

From scotsman.com: Delight as red kite returns to the capital.

A bird of prey which was hunted to the verge of extinction has been seen in Edinburgh for the first time in 300 years.

Reports of a red kite flying over the capital and circling Holyrood Park have left experts believing the "magnificent" creature could be making a comeback to the city.

The species, known as a "cleaner" because it eats carrion and scraps, is recovering from almost being wiped out in Britain. In 1930, there was just one pair successfully breeding - in mid-Wales.

Despite recently being reintroduced in Perth, Dumfries and the Black Isle, bird experts are surprised it has been seen in Edinburgh and say it could be a sign the native bird is breeding and increasing in numbers.

The red kite was killed off in Edinburgh and the surrounding areas by hunters who saw the creature as a prize trophy. [continue]

Related:
Red Kites - redkites.co.uk
Red Kite Centre - redkitcentre.co.uk
Red kite movies (Quicktime format) - redkitecentre.co.uk
Wild Woods red kite - forestry.gov.uk
Red Kites - BBC Wales
Red kite in flight (photo) digidylan.co.uk

Posted on June 21, 2005 06:20 PM. Filed under: animals, insects, etc.