Red Kites

[NeverEnoughTime]

Just wanted to share photos of these two Red Kites - since being re-introduced to the Vale of Aylesbury they have really thrived. Didn't manage to get very close but I am pleased with my first attempt.

[KurtM]

They're pretty decent pictures if you ask me, and the commentary is superb. 'Reintroduced' and 'thriving' used in the same sentence never fails to make me feel better about us humans. Thanks for sharing!

[Monjo71]

Very nice shots of these beautiful raptors.

[NeverEnoughTime]

Thanks guys. I am especially enjoying the Animals and Wildlife thread.and your photos have certainly inspired me to get out there.

[Shutteraddict]

Very nice, shot number 2 really draws me in. TFS

[FlyingKiwiGirl]

Great captures NET made all the more special because of the kite story.

Funnily enough just last night I was reading a book that made mention of the reintroduction of the Red Kite. It's success is apparently staggering. A few individual birds in Wales clawed the species back from the brink. They were hunted to near extinction by hunters, farmers & gamekeepers. Back in medieval London they weren't very popular either, the bird was bold scavenger swooping to grab food from people's hand. To call someone a kite was an insult, not just a bird but a lowlife. Shakespeare called London the "city of crows & kites".

I was given this book by a friend who picked it up at a book sale, it's a great read and mentions plenty of UK birds, it's called the "Bearded Tit" by Rory McGrath, A love story with feathers.

[mosgood]

Nicely done! It's great to hear that they are doing really well since being reintroduced!

[NeverEnoughTime]

Originally Posted by Shutteraddict

Very nice, shot number 2 really draws me in. TFS

Thanks Shutteraddict, mine too. There are a many times where the Kite was looking straight at me (but didn't get the shot) - quite intimidating. There are a few more on my Flickr if interested.

Originally Posted by FlyingKiwiGirl

Great captures NET made all the more special because of the kite story.

Hi FKG, love the background info and history. I have just ordered a used copy of 'Bearded Tit: A Love Story with Feathers' ' from Amazon - it has great reviews (including yours) so looking forward to a good read

Check out: : Please take part in the Red Kite Feeding Survey and The Chilterns AONB - Red Kites