A project started 10 years ago is still successful in releasing red kites into Yorkshire. Conservation officials of the project want people to sign a petition to help the continued protection of the species. Red kites have been susceptible to poison and poaching.
In the 4 year span from 1999 – 2003, 69 red kites were set free in the region. The partners that assisted in this reintroduction were the Harewood Estate, RSPB, Natural England, and Yorkshire Water. Even with 50 breeding pairs of red kites, the birds are still at risk of extinction in the area again.
This project has been successful in Yorkshire, but red kite populations are still suffering in other parts of Europe. The species isn’t saved yet. There have been major declines in Spain (40%) and France(30%).
It’s great to know that this bird has been reintroduced successfully in the Yorkshire area, but it’s also sad to know that people still want to kill it through poisoning or shooting.
