Slieve Gullion venue for Red Kite talk

The red kite was once a common sight across Britain and Ireland, until around 200 years ago when they were persecuted to extinction here.  In 2007, the RSPB NI, Golden Eagle Trust and Welsh Kite Trust began an ambitious project to bring these birds back to our skies.

As part of the project, Adam McClure the RSPB’s Red Kite Officer, and Danielle Begley, Biodiversity Officer for Newry and Mourne District Council, have teamed up to organise a series of exciting talks on Northern Ireland Red Kites across Newry and Mourne this winter.

Adam explains, “The response from the vast majority of local people across south Down to the red kites has been absolutely fantastic. As a thank you, we have organised these talks to allow more people to hear all about these marvellous birds, and I would encourage everyone to come along.”

The first of these talks will be held on Thursday 25th October, at Slieve Gullion Forest Park.  Starting at 7.30pm, the talk will cover the background to the project, how the birds physically got to Ireland and how the project has been progressing since the reintroduction phase ended in 2010.

Doors will be open from 7.10pm, the talk is suitable for all ages and there is no charge, although a small donation to the project would be greatly appreciated.  Tea and coffee will be available and there will be red kite toys and badges for sale, as well as free posters.

For further information please contact Danielle Begley, Newry and Mourne Biodiversity Officer on 028 3031 3100 or e-mail Danielle.begley@newryandmourne.gov.uk