Red Kite, 20012022, 17 f

Red Kite,

 

Agility and mastery in the air are synonymous with with the kites. the Red Kite adds the appeal of colour and pattern, It is easily separated from the heavier, less elegant Buzzard, having more of the lightness of a harrier, but even greater flexibility and elasticity in its movements, Where common, it gathers in groups of ten or even up to forty wherever food is concentrated,

Flight;- direct flight slow and steady with supple, deep wingbeats, often twists as rudder, soars well but not usually to any great height, very aerobatic,

The kite flexes its wings and twistsits long tail from side to side to exploit air currents to the fill, it is capable of fast stoops and twisting dives,

Occurrence ;- Local in Great Britain, widespread in Spain, Portugal, France, parts of S Europe, and north to Baltic, In open countryside and wooded valleys, higher up in summer but in low valleys in winter, whwn it forages around towns and tips,

 

Voice;- High, long-drawn, wailing or squealing weieieee-ow, higher-pitched than Buzzard.

Nesting;- Large nest of sticks, rags, earth, and rubbish in tree, well-hidden, 2-4 eggs, 1 brood, March - June,

Feeding;- Eats dead animals, such as rabbits or sheep, catches birds up to crow or gull size in surprise dash, also feeds on insects, worms,

Order;- Accipitriformes,

Family;- Accipitridae,

Species;- Milvus milvus,

Length;- 60 - 65cm ( 23.5 - 26in ),

Wingspan;- 1.45 - 1.65m ( 4.75 - 5.5ft ),

Weight;- 0.75 - 1.3kg ( 1.75 - 2.75lb ),

Social;- Small flocks,

Lifespan;- Up to 25 years,

Status;- Secure,

Done