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I have noticed reports of large movements of Red Kites in Cornwall around this time of year over the past few years, what's the reason behind this? Do British Red Kites winter on the continent
I have noticed reports of large movements of Red Kites in Cornwall around this time of year over the past few years, what's the reason behind this? Do British Red Kites winter on the continent
They are non-breeding/immature birds from the British (reintroduced) population. They seem to do a big loop to the south west, getting stuck a bit on the peninsula before heading back upcountry. Smaller numbers occur elsewhere at the same time along the south coast, but not so extreme.
There is no evidence for any particular exodus to the continent at all.
Its often in May when we've had dispersing/migrating Red Kites in non-breeding areas in N Wales, too. Sometimes in groups, and often gliding over at great height and subsequently being picked up much further along the coast.
There was a big gathering of dozens of them near Land's End last year, and yet I think only one made it over to Scilly. A big influx of Red Kites on Scilly would be a sight to behold!
Well over 100 birds turned up here today. I've gone from seeing no Red Kites at all on Scilly (just one bird visited briefly last year) to seeing dozens.
It's kind of weird that as soon as I wished for it, it happened! I hope a few stick around. Lovely birds.