Marlow, Bucks

[jaynethepain]

Having another lovely stay in this very pretty town and have notice large birds of prey (actually not difficult to spot!) which look like Kites. We don't think they are red kites, anyone help please?

[EcclesCake]

Almost certainly kites around Marlow.

[Buenchico]

Red Kites have been re-introduced around that area, so that does seem to be the most likely bird. The only fairly similar birds in that area would be buzzards.

[jaynethepain]

Definitely not buzzards. Red kites it is then, just surprising as the only time I've seen them before is in the wilds - Dumfries & Galloway and Shropshire.
Wonderful to see them though.

[kjn2]

Friends just came back from Derby and told us they have never seen so many Kites up there. Must be the year of the Kites.

[McMouse]

Red Kites are now very common in South Bucks. In fact I can see one circling high above my garden.

[michaelmph]

Very common in the countryside around Chequers, the PM's residence.

[Buenchico]

Red kites are now so populous in the Chilterns that, over the years, nearly 270 chicks have been taken from there to help the programme to reintroduce them in other parts of the country:
http://www.redkites.net/section72381.html

[EcclesCake]

The Chiltern kites have now spread as far as Hants and Surrey!

[jaynethepain]

Great answers everyone thank you. You learn something new every day!

[EcclesCake]

While you're in Marlow try The Royal Oak, nice pub with excellent food.

[jaynethepain]

Thanks for that Eccles, we've left now but will go back as soon as we can. Spent all our money at the Hand & Flowers for the moment!

[EcclesCake]

You did spoil yourselves! Hope you enjoyed it, The Royal Oak is a good gastro pub with a pleasant, easy environment.

[pixie373]

They are. I live about 20 minutes from Marlow. We have lots of Red Kites around here.