Red kites released at Aberdeen farm

THE release of two red kites in Aberdeen brings to an end a secret three-year project.

The red kites were the last of 100 to be released by the group.

The birds of prey came close to extinction last century after they were continually hunted, poisoned and shot.

But Easter Anguston Farm at Peterculter, Aberdeen, part of the VSA charity, has been breeding the endangered red kites over the last few years.

And the details had been kept under wraps until now.

Easter Anguston Farm manager John Duncan said the staff had kept the project a secret until the latest red kites, Dee and Don, were set free.

Mr Duncan said: “It has been a great experience for our trainees to see the birds up close and to feed them, although it has been quite a challenge for them to keep it a secret.”

Over the last few months, visitors to VSA Easter Anguston Farm in Aberdeen have been able to watch live CCTV footage of red kite chicks in their nest.

RSPB Scotland’s Aberdeen red kite project officer Jenny Lennon said everyone involved has been very supportive and hands on.

She said: “From the very first day we’ve had fantastic support from all the staff and trainees at the farm.”

There have been 100 red kites reintroduced in Aberdeenshire with some staying and settling in the area and some moving further afield.

cjordan@ajl.co.uk

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