In the 14th and 15th centuries Red Kites were widespread across Britain and were common scavangers in the filthy streets of medieval and Elizabethan towns. So good a job did the Kite do that in London it was protected by royal decree but, in the mid 16th century the "vermyn Acts" placed a bounty of 1 penny upon the head of this servant and over the next 100 years it was systematically slaughtered, almost to extinction. The evolution of enthusiastic gamekeeping, coupled with the Victorian fashion for egg collecting, were the final blows. The last pair of English Kites nested in 1870 and in Scotland in 1879.

At the turn of the century in Wales there were thought to be only 4 breeding pairs. Today's thriving population of Welsh Kites are their decendants. Their success is due, in no small part, to the work of conservationists who have invested hugh ammounts of time, money and effort into this remarkable recovery story.

The Welsh Kite Trust was set up in 1996 and has worked tirelesly to ensure this stunning bird's safe future. The Trust is almost entirely run on "Friends of the Welsh Kite" sponsorship. In return for a very modest annual donation 'Friends' receive a colour booklet, packed with facinating information, an enamel lapel badge and car window sticker. Twice a year a newsletter is sent out detailing the Trust's latest developments, breeding reports etc.

We urge you to become a 'Friend' and details can be obtained from: Tony Cross, The Welsh Kite Trust, 'Samaria', Nantmel, Llandrindod Wells, Powys, LD1 6EN, or http://www.welshkitetrust.org/  Please, please join.