Red Kite returns: Endangered bird reclaims Bavaria!

Red Kite returns: Endangered bird reclaims Bavaria!

The red kite, a symbolic bird of prey, is enjoying increasing popularity in the Weilheim-Schongau district. Despite being classified as critically endangered, the red kite is appearing in the region more frequently than in recent years, and that is a reason for joy for nature lovers. Loud Mercury the situation in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen district has improved significantly; About 15 years ago there were hardly any breeding pairs to be seen here. Recently, however, new areas have been discovered in the Garmisch-Partenkirchen basin.

How exactly did this positive development come about? A serious reason could be the changing landscape in Bavaria. Climate change and rising temperatures have led to the red kite migrating to our region from the north and northeast. The extensive grassland areas in the district also offer excellent hunting opportunities and therefore an ideal habitat for the narrow, highly valued bird. The global population of the red kite includes between 21,000 and 25,500 breeding pairs, of which around 10,500 to 13,000 pairs live in Germany, especially in the new federal states.

Habitat and dangers for the red kite

But despite all the good news, the red kite still faces many dangers. Intensive agriculture and the ongoing plowing of grassland are increasingly causing a lack of food, while densely growing grain varieties and fast-growing plants make the red kite's prey inaccessible. Loud LBV Traditional forms of management should urgently be promoted to ensure the survival of the red kite.

The bird is particularly at risk from wind turbines as it often gets caught in the rotors - over 160 documented hits in Germany speak for themselves. In order to ensure the protection of the red kite, the LBV calls for distance regulations from nests and hunting areas, which should be strictly adhered to in the approval practice for wind power projects. Unsecured electricity pylons also pose a danger. The implementation of the necessary safety requirements often falls short of expectations.

Territory and way of life

The red kite itself has an impressive appearance with a body size of up to 70 cm and a wingspan of up to 1.65 m. Its deeply forked tail and rusty brown base color make it unmistakable. Males and females are similar in plumage, while young birds stand out due to their darker heads. When observing it in the wild, one can often frantically look for its hunting grounds, which include agricultural areas, fish-rich waters or simply towns with garbage dumps.

The positive development of the red kite in Bavaria in recent years has led conservationists and bird lovers to look to the future with new hope. However, it remains to be hoped that conscious protective measures and a growing awareness of the bird's problems will continue to improve its habitat. The red kite is not only part of our natural heritage, but also an indicator of the health of the Bavarian cultural landscape.