The red kite is one of our most stunning birds of prey with a wonderfully graceful and effortless flight and the habit of drifting slowly, low over the countryside where it can be appreciated to full effect. It has a wing-span approaching two metres and a long, deeply-forked reddish tail, unlike that of any other British bird.

Once a familiar sight across much of England, the red kite was wiped out by the end of the 1800s, after enduring centuries of persecution. English Nature, together with partner organisations including Forest Enterprise and the RSPB, worked hard to restore the red kite. Now, after more than ten years of releasing young red kites in England, breeding populations are well established in parts of the Chilterns in southern England and in Rockingham Forest in the east midlands.

For more information about the Red Kite Reintroduction Programme in England contact Natural England's Enquiry Service and ask for a copy of the colour booklet Return of the red kite or download a copy here.