In a remarkable discovery, a red kite has been identified as the oldest to have thrived in the wild in Britain and Ireland. This avian veteran was spotted in Llanybydder, Carmarthenshire, in July, and its age was determined to be an astounding 26 years, equivalent to 9,518 days. The RSPCA was summoned to aid the bird when it was found collapsed and unable to fly.
While the red kite ultimately had to be euthanized due to its condition, the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) verified that it had been ringed on June 20, 1997, setting a new record as the oldest red kite ever documented. BTO officials were astonished to learn that this was the sole reported sighting of the bird throughout its extensive time in the wild.
Red kites are typically anticipated to live for around 10 years in their natural environment. Therefore, the age of this particular red kite stands out as an extraordinary anomaly, defying the usual lifespan expectations for these majestic birds. The prolonged survival of this red kite adds an intriguing chapter to the understanding of avian longevity and the intricacies of their lives in the wild.
Reflecting on the discovery, RSPCA wildlife officer Ellie West remarked, “This was such a beautiful bird, and I could tell that it was an adult and of a good age.” Despite the lack of avian influenza symptoms, concerns arose about the bird’s thin body condition and poor plumage, prompting the decision to humanely put it down.
The unveiling of this exceptional red kite’s longevity not only captivates bird enthusiasts and ornithologists but also provides valuable insights into the resilience and challenges faced by these remarkable creatures as they navigate the complexities of their natural habitats over extended periods.
Upon discovering the aged red kite, the wildlife officer, Ms. West, promptly sent the ring to the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), which astonishingly confirmed the bird’s age to be an impressive 26 years. Expressing her disbelief, Ms. West shared, “I could not believe it, as this bird was 26 years old and was found in pretty much the same area they were ringed in all those years ago.”
While the bird, unfortunately, did not survive, Ms. West found solace in the knowledge that it did not endure a prolonged or suffering death. Reflecting on the red kite’s potential legacy, she expressed, “I’m sure they had a full life, and it would be lovely to think that it may have reared several offspring over the years in the area too – although the sex is unknown.”
Lee Barber from the BTO acknowledged the significance of this discovery, stating, “This red kite now holds the longevity record for the oldest known wild red kite in Britain and Ireland.” The remarkable aspect of this finding is that it marks the first and only reported sighting of the bird in the 26 years and 22 days since it was initially ringed as a nestling back in 1997. This extraordinary revelation adds a layer of mystery and fascination to the life and history of this red kite, showcasing the surprises that the natural world can unfold even after decades of observation and study.