Red Kite

Description:

A gorgeous medium-sized raptor that get's its name from the rufous coloured plumage that covers most of the body aside from the underside of the forked tail, wingtips and head.

Habitat:

Spotted in Watlington, Oxfordshire, UK. This is one of the most spectacular places I have ever been in terms of raptor abundance. We spotted at least 100 red kites and several buzzards and kestrels. Since the kites were re-introduced in this region their numbers have exploded and they have become a subject of dispute as they are considered a pest by some locals. The majority (from what I gathered) welcome their presence. It appeared the birds had resorted to becoming scavengers - swooping down into peoples backyards as they disposed of their food waste.

Notes:

If you are based in the UK or travelling there and interested in practicing raptor photography this is really a wonderful place to visit. These birds were shot under particularly challenging light conditions, hence the varying quality but one day I will go return on a sunny afternoon :)