A recent survey by the RSPB charity has revealed the Red Kite population is now at its highest level for 200 years. Numbers have doubled in North of England over the last year, with an increase of 40% in Yorkshire alone.

Red Kites were all but wiped out in the UK, with just 10 pairs left in a remote part of Wales. this has all changed through a reintroduction project that began in England and Scotland has now seen the birds classified as ‘near threatened’ by the World Conservation Union. This summer also saw the red Kite reintroduced into Northern Ireland for the first time in 200 years, with the UK population growing to almost 1,200 breeding pairs.

RSPB Director of Conservation, Dr Mark Avery, said –

‘The continuing recovery of the red kite is a fantastic success story. It is a truly iconic bird and wherever it has been reintroduced, from the Chilterns to Gateshead to Aberdeen, local people have taken it to their hearts. Its return is a testament to what is possible when all sectors of society – conservationists, landowners and the general public – recognise the value inherent in our wildlife and work together to protect and treasure it. As a country, we can be very proud of what has been achieved over the last 20 years.’

Join the RPSB for as little as £2.84 a month

An adult RSPB membership is a unique Christmas charity gift for a loved one this festive season. The membership entitles the holder to free entry to over 100 RSPB nature reserves across the UK, plus a great welcome pack and quarterly magazine. Whilst a junior membership offers posters, stickers, a logbook with activities and wildlife stationery set.

Also for a limited time only, you will also receive the fantastic ‘Saving Planet Earth’ book written by Tony Juniper, one of the UK’s leading environmentalists. This book is worth £20 on the high street but is free with every new RSPB membership until 3rd November 2008.