Convervation status: Amber 2 videos Latin nameMilvus milvus FamilyHawks, vultures and eagles (Accipitridae) OverviewThis magnificently graceful bird of prey is unmistakable with its reddish-brown body, angled wings and deeply forked tail. It was saved from national extinction by one of the world's longest running protection programmes, and has now been successfully re-introduced to England and Scotland. It is an Amber List species because of its historical decline. Where to see themAt one time confined to Wales, a reintroduction scheme has brought them back to many parts of England and Scotland. Central Wales, central England - especially the Chilterns, central Scotland - at Argaty, and along the Galloway Kite Trail are the best areas to find them. When to see themAll year round. What they eatMainly carrion and worms, but opportunistic and will occasionally take small mammals. Estimated numbers| Europe | UK breeding* | UK wintering* | UK passage* |
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| - | c1800-2000 pairs | - | - |
* UK breeding is the number of pairs breeding annually. UK wintering is the number of individuals present from October to March. UK passage is the number of individuals passing through on migration in spring and/or autumn. Distribution
Please note that the map is only intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations. Sound: Jens Kirkeby, Xeno-canto |