The Red Kite’s Year

… many drawings or watercolors which embellish a very instructive reading for all those who are interested in the ecology and conservation of the Red Kite.

-- Jean Marc Thiollay * Ornithos *

Two fine naturalists giving a new slant on an ongoing story through very good fieldwork. A thoroughly recommended book of an outstanding natural history success story.

-- Steve Rutherford * Country-side magazine (British Naturalists' Association) *

While not a detailed scientific appraisal of the reintroduction of the Red Kite, this book does provide a very readable account of one of the most successful conservation projects ever attempted in the UK. It is highly recommended for all aficionados of this charismatic raptor, which is now well established in many areas of the UK and hopefully will soon become a regular sight throughout these islands.

-- John Clark * British Birds *

We learn in this book how the species was protected in the 15th century because of its role as a street cleaner. .... As a result of the sanitation of urban areas, the possibilities of finding food decreased and persecution increased. The downward spiral began in the 1700s. At the end of the 19th century, only a few couples remained in a remote part of Wales. The numbers reached their lowest level in the 1930s but, since the species has been protected, a (very) slow recovery has started. The reintroduction program, to which Ian Carter collaborated personally, was organized in several parts of England, in Scotland and Ireland.

-- Walter Belis * Alauda *

Immediately I picked up The Red Kite’s Year I was smitten. Written around the yearly cycle of survival, mating and nest selection, habitat interaction, food, growth and dispersal, it also covers history, documented fieldwork and personal experiences. Ian Carter’s text is wonderfully illustrated by Dan Powell, whose lively line escapes the pages and makes one want to rush to spot one of these impressive creatures. A book for the enthusiast, The Red Kite’s Year is certainly recommended.

-- Barry Larking * EC