Leonard and I had a couple of days in Harrogate. Doug Simpson of the Yorkshire Kite re-introduction scheme, based at Harewood House, kindly gave us instructions as to where we might best see any kites.
Since two of our Northern Kites, Speedy WT1 and Scarlet WT2 decided to abscond and find partners in Doug's Domaine, we were keen to see if we could find them amongst the other kites. Clever kites... with their respective partners, they have raised at least six chicks!
Yesterday, Tuesday, 28th October was a bright sunny day, so off we went - an attached map shows where we went, and I have marked where we saw the Red Kites. The entrance to the Harewood Estate from the junction to Wike leads you onto a bridle pathway, looking towards Harewood House. Three kites were floating on the thermals just above the near fields looking towards the House.
My best sighting was the northern one near the roundabout. I attach a pic, but, although the kite flew low at first, it then soared high into the sky, and I couldn't do any better than this. At least the silhouette is very kitey!
It was good to see that, despite the recent poisoning in Otley, these kites looked active and well. We saw no tags, so Speedy and Scarlet, if you were there, it was good to meet you again!
Hi June
Great report once more. A pity about the silouette of the Red Kite in the sky - and not ID
I hate to hear about the Kite poisonings and I hope that they become less frequent, and fade out at the end of the day. :-C
Six chicks 'is' good going and well done to the parents for all their hard work.
Regards
Kathy
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