Milvus milvus - Red Kite

Taxonomy

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Aves

Order: Accipitriformes

Family: Accipitridae

The Red Kite is still an uncommon sight in Britain except for in mid Wales, although it is increasing in numbers in some parts of England. Kites can now be seen in large flocks over the Cambrian Mountains and the lakes and upland valleys of Mid and West Wales. For example, between Llandysul and the source of the River Teifi kites are a frequent sight throughout the day.

The distinctive forked tail of this majestic bird is its most obvious feature as it soars and glides effortlessly overhead. Its flight is much more buoyant than that of a Buzzard.

Kites feed on small rodents, birds, frogs and even worms. They frequently reuse old nests, which are built of sticks lined untidily with wool, baler twine, cigarette packets - in fact all sorts of rubbish.

A brood of two or three eggs is normal.