Red kites are one of the most beautiful birds of prey in the UK, and they have become a symbol of the country’s conservation efforts. Once on the brink of extinction, the red kite population in mid Wales has made a remarkable recovery, thanks to decades of conservation efforts. Today, these magnificent birds can be seen soaring over the countryside, offering photographers a unique opportunity to capture their beauty in action.

Mid Wales is home to some of the UK’s largest populations of red kites, making it a prime location for bird photography enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just starting out, capturing the beauty of these birds requires patience, skill, and a few tips and tricks.

In this article, we’ll explore the prevalence of red kites in mid Wales and offer some tips and techniques for capturing stunning images of these majestic birds.

The History of Red Kites in Mid Wales

Red kites were once a common sight throughout the UK, but by the early 20th century, they had been hunted to near extinction. By the 1970s, there were only a handful of breeding pairs left in the country, all of them in remote parts of Wales.

In the 1990s, conservationists launched a campaign to reintroduce red kites to other parts of the UK, with mid Wales being one of the key areas targeted. Over the past few decades, the population of red kites in mid Wales has soared, with more than 1,000 breeding pairs now calling the area home.

Today, red kites are a common sight throughout mid Wales, with many visitors coming specifically to see these magnificent birds in action.

Tips and Techniques for Photographing Red Kites

If you’re looking to capture stunning images of red kites in mid Wales, there are a few tips and techniques to keep in mind.

  1. Research their Behaviour: Red kites are highly adaptable birds, and they can be seen flying and hunting at various times of the day. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon, so plan your photography sessions accordingly. Researching their behaviour can also help you anticipate their movements, giving you a better chance of capturing that perfect shot.
  2. Choose the Right Equipment: Photographing red kites requires a camera with a fast shutter speed and a lens with a long focal length. A zoom lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is recommended to capture the bird in flight. A tripod or monopod can also help stabilize your camera and reduce camera shake.
  3. Find the Right Light: The quality of light can make or break your photographs, so it’s important to choose the right time of day to capture your images. The golden hours of the day, which are the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset, offer the best light for bird photography. The soft, warm light can enhance the beauty of the bird’s feathers and bring out their colors.
  4. Use a Fast Shutter Speed: Red kites are fast-moving birds, and capturing them in flight requires a fast shutter speed. A shutter speed of at least 1/1000th of a second is recommended to freeze their movement and capture sharp images.
  5. Get Creative with Composition: While it’s important to capture the bird in flight, don’t be afraid to get creative with your compositions. Experiment with different angles, framing, and cropping to create unique and interesting images.
  6. Consider Ethics and Safety: It’s important to remember that red kites are protected birds, and disturbing their habitat or nesting areas is illegal. Always maintain a safe distance from the birds and avoid disrupting their natural behaviour.

The Importance of Protecting Red Kites

Red kites are a conservation success story in the UK, and their recovery in mid Wales is a testament to the power of conservation efforts. However, their continued survival is not guaranteed, and it’s important to do everything we can to protect these magnificent birds.

One of the biggest threats to red kites is human activity. Habitat loss, disturbance, and poisoning are all major concerns, and it’s important for photographers and birdwatchers to be aware of their impact on the birds.

When photographing red kites, it’s essential to prioritize the welfare of the birds above all else. Avoid disturbing their nesting sites or feeding areas, and never attempt to feed or handle the birds. Stay on designated paths and trails to minimize your impact on the environment, and always follow the guidance of local conservation organizations.

By acting responsibly and respecting the natural behavior of these birds, we can help ensure their continued survival for generations to come.

Conclusion

Red kites are one of the most beautiful and iconic birds of prey in the UK, and mid Wales offers some of the best opportunities to photograph them in their natural habitat. With the right equipment, technique, and a little patience, capturing stunning images of these magnificent birds is well within reach.

But it’s important to remember that red kites are not just subjects for our photographs; they are living creatures that deserve our respect and protection. By acting responsibly and following the guidance of local conservation organizations, we can help ensure the continued survival of these magnificent birds for generations to come.

So if you’re planning a photography trip to mid Wales, be sure to take the time to appreciate the beauty of these birds in their natural habitat. And remember, the most beautiful photographs are those that capture the true spirit of the subject – in this case, the majestic red kite.