After almost having been lost in Britain, Red Kite is an increasingly familiar sight across the country – a real conservation success. However, identification can be made trickier by the much rarer Black Kite. The very unfamiliarity of the latter means that it could be overlooked, especially with distant views. The outlying possibility of both Asian and African subspecies, plus hybrids, further complicates the picture. Dick Forsman offers all the advice you need to confidently recognise these species in all plumages.
Basic Principles
Europe has two species of Milvus kites: Red Kite and Black Kite. In Britain the former is an increasing resident, while Black is a rare visitor, mostly seen in spring and autumn. In a wider context, Red Kite is a western, typically European species, while Black has…