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Lord and Lady Provost release Aberdeen Red Kites

Last modified: 21 July 2008

Project Officer Jenny Lennon with one of the red kites
Aberdeen red kite press release - (RSPB)

The second phase of a three-year project to reintroduce the magnificent red kite to the skies around Aberdeen will begin on Monday 21 July, when Aberdeen's Lord and Lady Provost will release six birds of 35 gathered from nests around the UK.

The striking bird of prey had a terrific first year after its return to Aberdeen's skies with 30 birds released in 2007, and sightings around Aberdeenshire, and even as far away as the Mull of Galloway. This year, the second of the three-year Aberdeen Red Kites Project should cement the birds return to the North East, with one bird being named 'Nicholas' after the Granite City's patron saint by Aberdeen's Lady Provost.

Jenny Lennon, RSPB Scotland Red Kite Officer, said: 'Last year's birds have been very successful and have been enjoyed by so many people, especially around Echt and Garlogie. This year's chicks are raring to go and join the growing wild population.'

'This year's chicks are raring to go and join the growing wild population'

The birds will be fitted with wing tags and radio transmitters to track their progress, and it's hoped that the public will report sightings to aberdeenredkites@rspb.org.uk to help monitor their behaviour and wellbeing.

Aberdeen Red Kites are funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Aberdeen Greenspace Trust Ltd through the Landfill Community Fund and Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH), with additional contributions from local businesses Stewart Milne Group and Raeburn, Christie Clarke and Wallace.

Alister Clunas, Chief Officer of Aberdeen Greenspace Trust Ltd said: 'Last year's red kites have received a fantastic welcome, and these special birds are making the countryside around Aberdeen a more wild and natural place. Hopefully even more people will now get to see these magnificent birds while out and about.'

Caroline Clark, Casework Manager for the Heritage Lottery Fund Scotland, commented: 'This is a very exciting point in a project which will reverse the fate of these rare birds. Our birds and wildlife are as much a part of Scotland's heritage as our castles and mountains which is why we are supporting their re-introduction.'

Paul Timms, Operations Manager at SNH, Grampian said: 'Seeing a red kite in its natural setting is a breathtaking sight and we are delighted that this project is entering its second year. The red kite now has a talon hold in Grampian and it is vital that the releases continue so that the new population grows and becomes self-sustaining. SNH considers that everyone should have the chance to view our magnificent wildlife and this red kite project will help to ensure that more people will be able to do so.'

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