Red kites nesting in Sherwood Forest for the first time

Red Kites Nesting in Sherwood Forest for the First Time

Red kites have been seen nesting in Sherwood Forest in Nottinghamshire for the first time. Wildlife rangers spotted the birds of prey along with other rare species during an annual "creature count" organized by Center Parcs, which operates a resort in the forest.

The discovery of red kites nesting in Sherwood Forest is considered a significant record for Nottinghamshire. The birds were once extinct in England but their presence now shows a positive change in the fate of the species.

According to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), red kites were declared extinct in England in the 19th century due to being labeled as vermin and hunted. The recent sighting of the birds within the Center Parcs resort at Sherwood Forest is a notable event.

The wildlife rangers at Center Parcs observed a diverse range of species during the survey, including rare butterflies, otters, and bats. The data collected during the count will help in shaping habitat management and conservation strategies for the future.

The annual survey conducted by rangers, ecologists, and volunteers aims to monitor wildlife populations and their habitats at Center Parcs sites across the UK. In Sherwood Forest, a high number of birds were ringed, and various bat species were recorded, with over 200 bats counted from one roost during the summer.

Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, in collaboration with Center Parcs, expressed excitement over the fascinating records from this year's creature count. The trust highlighted the successful conservation efforts that have led to the resurgence of red kites and hoped that the findings would inspire others to observe and record wildlife in their surroundings.