The Red Kite: A conservation success story

A documentary exploring the history of the Red kite (Milvus milvus) in the UK. The red kite has had a turbulent history in the UK. Once a common and widespread raptor, the red kite was a valued scavenger and was awarded protection by royal decree, for keeping the streets clear of carrion and human waste. A change in public perception however, saw the red kite regarded as a pest, leading to decades of persecution, until just a few breeding pairs remained in Wales. Huge efforts were made to return the kite to the skies of the UK, in what has been hailed as a true conservation success story. This film explores the kites history, conservation efforts, garden feeding, future threats and media sensationalism. We also interview author of 'The red kite' and 'The red kites' year', Ian Carter. The film features the amazing augmented reality Red kite artwork, created by Sarah Wardlaw, that was displayed outside Cardiff Castle, as part of RSPB Cymru’s ‘Revive the wild’ campaign.