Kite poisoning continues in the Derwent Valley
 

Released in 2005 Ziggy has become the fourth kite to be poisoned in the Derwent Valley (© FoRK)

 

Police are investigating the deaths of five Red Kites in Northumberland.

The deaths span a period of seven months and appear to be the results of poisoning.

On February 12 two Red Kites were found dead in a remote area to the south of Hexham. Investigations at the scene gave no indications as to the cause of death. However a post mortem examination showed that they died as a result of poisoning.

On June 9 another was found dead near Whittonstall and then the partner to this bird was found dead on July 18 not far away at Hindley.

Tests again showed that the Whittonstall bird was poisoned and although test results are awaited for the second bird it is likely the two died at the same time.

The fifth bird was found on August 4 near Rowlands Gill this was a juvenile and again results of tests are awaited.

It is believed that the pair found at Whittonstall and Hindley had young and as a result it is more than likely that at least one red kite chick has also died.

The poison involved in the February 12 death was one that can be used legally on pest species. The poison that killed the bird in the Whittonstall incident is a banned one.
 

Ziggy and Pontland Sunrise's chick perished after they were both found dead (© FoRK)
 

Northumbria Police Wildlife Coordinator Don Churchill said: "While these Red Kites may not have been deliberately targeted it is clear that unlawful use of poisons was involved.

"Red kites eat carrion and it is likely these birds fed on carcasses laced with poison left out in the open, targeting pests.

"The uncontrolled and indiscriminate use of poison leads to the deaths of all types of animals from domestic pets to protected wildlife species.

"We would appeal to the public, particularly those walking in the countryside, to report if they see animal carcasses cut open and laid out with perhaps a granular substance in the carcass or if they see a pile of grain mixed with some other substance placed out in the open."

Anyone with information about the deaths or who sees anything suspicious should contact Northumbria Police on 03456 043 043 or the Wildlife Incident Investigation Scheme on 0800 321 600.
 

Friends of Red Kites
http://www.friendsofredkites.org.uk
01st Dec 2010