Red Kites

I have a Red Kite that sits in a tree opposite my kitchen. I have put out the odd chicken carcass which it enjoys. A pleasure to watch. The author in the Daily Mail has mentioned it as being a Scavenger, not a Hunter. He is quite right, road kills are it's main source of food.

People from afar come here to where I live just to see them. Looking at then soaring in the sky on motionless wings, calling to one another, and seeing the white patch under it's wings is a moment of joy for them. I have witnessed all that the writing is about and I am pleased that they have increased in numbers. This area was the home of the few who existed up to about 20 years ago when it was decided to introduce a breeding program which has obviously succeeded.

Why is it that some people seem to think that they have to destroy these wonderful creatures, along with other wild animals, usually brought about on half truths regarding their natural behavior. Of recent years it was decided that any animals who died in the fields should be placed in a storage area, awaiting collection by authorized people. In the old days they were quietly towed away to a quiet place on the farm and withing a couple of days nature and the scavengers would clear the lot, keeping the place clean and tidy.

Some say it's a good thing, others???..........