Our Red Kite Histories
Kites Released in 2006 (61 to 95 +O/G1)
Kite No: 61
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Wrekenton Warrier
Hatched: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt/Befriend a kite school: Fell Dyke Community Primary School, Wrekenton, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. She is regularly seen flying around the Barlow area.
Wrekenton Warrior was regularly recorded in the Gateshead area until mid-May 2007.
On the 11th June 2007, a report was received from Worcester, in the West Midlands, that a red kite was feeding on a dead pigeon in a field. This kite was Wrekenton Warrior.
Wrekenton Warrior has not been detected since.June.
2007 - Worcester, West Midlands.
Latest Sighting: May 2021 - Penuwch, Wales.
Kite No: 62
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Cedars Cyclone
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: The Cedars School, Low Fell, Gateshead
Brief Summary: For the first few weeks after release, Cedars Cyclone was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley. However, her exploring took her away from Gateshead where she was last detected on 24th July 2006. In mid October 2006, Cedars Cyclone was detected and found to be in the Scottish borders, just north of Coldstream. She has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: October 2006 - Scottish Borders, north of Coldstream.
Kite No: 63
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Polo
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Dubmire Primary School, Houghton le Spring, Co Durham
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Polo is still regularly detected in the Barlow area.
Polo spent a lot of time with WT33 in the spring, they were seen carrying sticks but did not build a nest.
On 10th September 2007, Polo was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months Polo has regularly been roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill and also at Gibside.
In spring 2008, Polo was seen displaying with WT89 (Kitty) and they built a nest together near Hamsterley in County Durham. WT89 was seen incubating, however, their eggs did not hatch.
Since early September 2008, Polo has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
On 9th March 2009, Polo was seen at Victoria Garesfield Lane in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead. He then went on to successfully fledge one chick, tagged C5, with his partner Kitty. In the October he was seen at the winter pre-roost at Sherburn Towers.
In 2010 this pair again successfully fledged two chicks, tagged E0 & E1.
In April 2011, Polo was seen flying over Chopwell near his territory. This year though, he and his partner failed in their breeding attempt.
March 2012 - regularly seen on territory at Derwentcote/Blackhall Mill. Polo, (WT63), and his partner Kitty (WT98) used last years nest. They actually produced a brood of three young but disaster struck when strong winds blew two of the chicks out of the nest. One chick was found dead directly under the nest but the other survived and was taken to the rehab. Pen. Wing Tagged F6.
June 2012 - flying over nest wood.
15/10/2012 - recorded at pre roost with offspring F6, perched on pylon near Hollinside Manor.
01/11/2012 - recorded at the pre roost gathering, Paddock Hill.
10/01/2013 - perched on pylon at the pre roost gathering, Hollinside Manor, and again at dusk in the main roost at Paddock Hill. Also seen on two further occasions in January
04/04/2013 - building new nest with his mate, Kitty (WT89) near the 2011 nest site.
May 2013 - Kitty was noted incubating but by June the nest had failed, possible predation.
February 2014 - Polo and Kitty were again on their territory at Derwentcote. In April Kitty was noted incubating, and the pair went on to successfully fledge three chicks - two were wing tagged H2 and H3.
June 2014 - on territory with his partner and three chicks
February and March 2015 - Polo and his partner Kitty (WT89) were seen on territory at Derwentcote, defending their territory from other kites, and with nesting material to refurbish their nest.
April and May 2015 - kites were still seen on territory, and by May there was thought to be a chick in the nest. The nest subsequently failed - believed to be from predation.
February and March 2016 - There was regular activity from the resident pair Polo and his partner WT89 Kitty on their Derwentcote territory, and last year's nest was refurbished.
May 2016 - Kitty was noted incubating/brooding on the 9th May.
June 2016 - the chicks were becoming well feathered, and this pair went on to successfully fledge three chicks, all ringed and wing tagged L5, L6 and L7.
February and March 2017 - There was regular activity from the resident pair Polo and his partner WT89 Kitty patrolling over and near their Derwentcote territory. On one occasion in February a 2016 juvenile WTL0 from the Urpeth nest was noted nearby.
April and May 2017 - Kitty was noted incubating on the 24h April with Polo close by, and on the 18th May Kitty was noted brooding young.
June 2017 - early in June two chicks were noted in the nest and becoming well feathered, whilst the adults were flying near by. Subsequently three chicks were all ringed and wing tagged N5, N6 and N7.
July 2017 - early in July the nest was empty with the chicks having fledged - two chicks (N6 & N7) were perched in a tree and the other chick (N5) flying.
February and March 2018 - there was a lot of kite activity near this nest site near Derwentcote. (WT63 Polo is the male here).
April and May 2018 - On 9th April the female was noted incubating, then brooding young on 21st May.
June 2018 - Three chicks were ringed only.
Latest Sighting: July 2018 - Three chicks successfully fledged.
Kite No: 64
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Red Runcie
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Archbishop Runcie Church of England Aided First School, Gosforth, Newcastle.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In September, Red Runcie briefly visited Devil's Water, near Slaley in Northumberland. He is regularly detected in Barlow Burn and the lower Derwent valley.
Red Runcie spent time with WT70 in the spring. However, by May WT70 was in Teesdale.
Red Runcie was regularly recorded in the Gateshead area until 12th October 2007. This has been followed by no detections since.
Latest Sighting: October 2007 – Gateshead.
Kite No: 65
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Hook
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Cragside Church of England First School, Cramlington, Northumberland
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In August, WT65 left Gateshead and began exploring other areas. On 18th November 2006, she was detected back in Gateshead during a red kite guided walk.
However, Hook's transmitter signal did not change for a period of time indicating problems. Following further investigation her corpse was found in mid-March. There is no evidence to suggest she died of anything other than natural causes.
Latest Sighting: March 2007 - Gateshead - deceased, not suspicious.
Kite No: 66
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: No name given
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Central First School, Ashington, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Wing tag 66 enjoyed exploring around the Rowlands Gill area. However, transmitter signals indicated a problem in the New Year of 2007. His corpse was found by a member of the public in woods near Dipton. There were no signs to indicate death was due to anything but natural causes.
Latest Sighting: January 2007 - Dipton, Co Durham - deceased, not thought to be suspicious.
Kite No: 67
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Red Bullet
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Tanfield Lea Junior School, Stanley, Co Durham.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In early August, Red Bullet left Gateshead and began exploring other areas.
In early August 2006, Red Bullet left Gateshead and began exploring other areas.
On 20th December 2007 Red Bullet's signal was detected in north Yorkshire. A visual sighting has since confirmed Red Bullet is with the Yorkshire red kites near the Harewood Estate, to the north of Leeds. This has been followed by no sightings since.
December 2007 - Harewood, Yorkshire.
Latest Sighting: March 2013 - found dead near Ripley in Yorkshire. Post-mortem reports an unexplained death. Trauma associated with collision.
Kite No: 68
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Lyons Lightning
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Hetton Lyons Primary School, Sunderland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Lyons Lightning is still regularly detected in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn area.
On 5th November 2007, Lyons Lightning and five other kites were seen feeding on a pheasant carcass in a field in Rowlands Gill.
During the winter months Lyons Lightning has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In spring 2008, Lyons Lightning was seen displaying in the Derwent valley with a Yorkshire kite (wing tag orange/green 1 - first seen in Gateshead in 2007). They went on to build a nest together and have raised one chick. The chick was fitted with a leg ring and wing tags B3. On 28th July 2008, Lyons Lighting was seen flying with partner WTO/G1 and chick WTB3 near Barlow in Gateshead.
Since mid-September 2008, Lyons Lightning has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
On 28th January 2009, Lyons Lightning was seen with 7 other kites in the Beda Hills area of Rowlands Gill. During March 2009, he was seen on two occasions in the Thornley Woods area of Rowlands Gill. He went on to successfully fledge two chicks, tagged C3 & C4 with WT O/G1 - Soar, but in 2010 this pair failed in their breeding attempt.
In January 2011 Lyons Lightning was identified at the winter pre-roost at Hollinside Manor.
Building a new nest within his territory, proved a good move, and he and his partner Soar, successfully fledged two chicks, untagged.
In August 2011 he was identified feeding in a recently harvested field near Winlaton with several other kites, including his partner Soar, and one of his 2009 chicks, C3.
March 2012 - observed on territory in Stampley Moss wood . The pair used last years nest. On the 19th June a dead chick was found in the nest. It must have succumbed to the cold and wet conditions that have been a feature of our weather this year. There was also two unhatched eggs in the nest.
June 2013 - Lyons Lightning and his partner Soar were found to have moved to a new territory in Thornley Woods where they successfully fledged two chicks, not ringed or wing tagged.
In March 2014 although there was some initial activity on this territory - Soar was later confirmed as moving to a new territory and pairing up with Red Philip (WT15).
Latest Sighting: June 2013 - on territory with his partner and two chicks.
Kite No: 69
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Fire Feather
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Amble First School, Amble, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Fire Feather was regularly seen in Barlow Burn and the lower Derwent valley until 5th June 2007.
On 12th December 2007 Fire Feather was detected at the winter roost at Glen Almond in central Scotland.
He has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: December 2007 - Glen Almond, Central Scotland.
Kite No: 70
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Christi
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Corpus Christi RC Primary School, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: For the first two weeks after release, WT70 was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley. However, her exploring took her away from Gateshead where she was last detected on 20th July 2006. In September and October, WT70 was detected exploring County Durham around Swaledale. In early December she was detected with the kites in the Harewood Estate in Yorkshire. It was discovered on 7th March 2007 that Christi had returned to Gateshead, she was recorded at Barlow Burn with several other kites. By May she had travelled to County Durham, where her signal was detected in Langleydale, Teesdale. By mid-August 2007 Christi was back in Gateshead, she was detected at Barlow Burn.
Christi did not remain in Gateshead for long, by 16th October she was detected at Harewood Estate in Yorkshire, where she spent last winter. However, by 22nd October, Christi was back in Gateshead.
Since her return to Gateshead Christi has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In spring 2008 Christi was seen displaying with WT92 (Sunrise) near Hamsterley Mill in County Durham. The pair built a nest together and have successfully raised three chicks - the most raised by any Northern kite in the northeast up until this point.
In early October 2008, Christi was seen at Muggleswick near the Derwent Reservoir in County Durham.
Christi was not seen again until 6th April 2009, she was perched in woodland near Hamsterley Hall with partner WT92, where they went on to successfully fledge two chicks, not tagged.
They again fledged two chicks in 2010, not tagged. In September 2010 Christi was seen at the winter roost at Sherburn Towers.
In 2011, although there was activity early in the season, the old nest was not used, and a new nest not found, so the out come for this year was unknown.
Latest Sighting: April 2011 - near Hamsterley Hall, Co Durham - kites active near nest territory.
Kite No: 71
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Sky Dancer
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Whitehouse Primary School, North Shields, North Tyneside.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In late September, WT71 left Gateshead and was detected again in mid October in the upper Derwent valley near Derwent Reservoir. In early December 2006 he had returned to Gateshead. Since then Sky Dancer has regularly been recorded in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow area.
On 10th September 2007, Sky Dancer was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months Sky Dancer has regularly been roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill and also at Gibside.
In spring 2008, Sky Dancer was seen displaying with WTA4 (Farra Flame) they went on to build a nest together and had two chicks, one of which was raised to fledging. This chick has been fitted with a leg ring and wing tags B9 and fledged in July 2008. Sky Dancer's mate WTA4 is only one year old and is the offspring of WT15 (Red Philip) and WT16 (Flag) (the first kites to breed in the northeast for nearly 200 years back in 2006). WTA4 has therefore made WT15 and WT16 grandparents at the ripe old age of four years old.
Since late September 2008, Sky Dancer has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
He was last seen in Gateshead at the end of 2008, this has been followed by no sightings since.
Latest Sighting: December 2008 - Sherburn Towers, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
Kite No:72
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Red Lightning
Adopt a Kite School: St Pius Xth Primary School, Consett, Co Durham
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Brief Summary: For the first few weeks after release, Red Lightning was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley. However, her exploring took her away from Gateshead where she was last detected on 26th July 2006. She returned to Gateshead in October. She was detected in Yorkshire with the kites at the Harewood estate in early December. However, on 15th February 2007, Red Lightning was back in Gateshead!
She was last detected in Gateshead on 11th April 2007.
Red lightning was not recorded in Gateshead again until 15th April 2008 when she was detected in Rowlands Gill and then at Gibside National Trust estate. She did not remain in Gateshead for long and by mid-June 2008 she was photographed at Gigrin Farm, the kite feeding station in Wales!
Latest Sighting: On 4th February 2009, Red Lightning was seen again at Gigrin Farm in Wales. It is assumed that she has now settled in this area.
Kite No: 73
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Hugar
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Hookergate School, Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In late August, WT73 left Gateshead and began exploring other areas. She briefly returned to Gateshead on 21st October. 2006, but has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: October 2006 - Gateshead.
Kite No: 74
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Jammy Dodger
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: St Joseph's RC Primary School, Highfield, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Jammy Dodger is regularly detected in the Barlow area.
During the winter months Jammy Dodger has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In spring 2008 Jammy Dodger was seen displaying with WT40 (Ziggy) in the Derwent valley. They built a nest together, however, their eggs did not hatch.
Since mid-September 2008, Jammy Dodger has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
In spring 2009, Jammy Dodger and partner WT40 nested at the Highland Cattle Centre near Whittonstall, in the Tyne Valley, where they went on to successfully fledge one chick, not tagged.
There have been no sightings since, his partner Ziggy with her new partner WT A5 Ponteland Sunrise, attempted to breed at this same location in 2010, but both adults and their chick perished, much to the distress of the owners of the HCC. It was subsequently confirmed as poisoning, so it does not bode well for Jammy Dodger.
Latest Sighting: July 2009 - Highland Cattle Centre, Whittonstall, Northumberland - successfully fledged one chick with partner WT40.
Kite No: 75
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Doddy Red
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Dodmire Infant and Nursery School, Darlington, Co Durham
Brief Summary: Latest Sighting: For the first few weeks after release, WT75 was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley. However, her exploring took her away from Gateshead where she was last detected on 24th July 2006.
On 14th October 2007, Doddy Red was detected in South East Northumberland. She was between the villages of Ulgham and Hebron, just North of Morpeth.
She has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: October 2007 - North of Morpeth, Northumberland.
Kite No: 76
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink / Green
Kite Name: Chester
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Brighton Avenue Primary School, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. He is regularly recorded in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn area.
During the winter months Chester has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In spring 2008, Chester was seen displaying with WT32 (Red Arrow) in the Derwent valley. They built a nest together but at a very early stage their chicks were predated upon by a carrion crow.
Since mid-September 2008, Chester has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
In spring 2009, Chester and partner WT32 built a nest on the Gibside Estate, Gateshead, and went on to successfully fledge two chicks, not tagged. In August the pair were seen on their territory with one of their chicks.
In 2010 the pair moved across the river from their previous territory, in to the lower Derwent Valley, and successfully fledged two chicks, not tagged.
Throughout the winter of 2010/2011 Chester was regularly seen at the pre-roosts at Hollinside Manor, and at the roosts at Snipes Dene.
In 2011 Chester and his partner WT32 successfully fledged two chicks, tagged E6 & E7.
Observed at the pre roost near Hollinside Manor on 21st November 2011.
March 2012 - refurbishing last years nest with his partner Red Arrow (WT32).
The pair successfully fledged three chicks and the whole family were seen flying together at Far Pasture on July 9th .
29/10/2012 - Identified on territory (Cappy Scar) and at pre roost, Hollinside Manor.
12/12/2012 - perched in tree at the northern end of territoy, near Thornley Garden Centre, off Hollinside Lane. Observed regularly at roost after this date.
01/04/2013 - building new nest with partner WT32, Red Arrow, above Far Pastures, Lockhaugh, Gateshead.
15/04/13 - partner on nest incubating eggs.
June 2013 - confirmed that three chicks successfully fledged, not ringed or wing tagged.
Chester was noted at the main roost on several occasions throughout the winter of 2013/2014
March 2014 - Chester and his partner WT32 Red Arrow on territory near Far Pasture refurbishing their nest.
May 2014 - the pair had moved back to their previous territory at Cappy Scar and went on to successfully fledge two chicks wing tagged H8 and H9.
June 2014 - on territory with his partner and two chicks.
February and March 2015 - Chester and his partner Red Arrow (WT32) were seen on their territory at Cappy Scar in Rowlands Gill, including being in a territorial dispute with other kites
April and May 2015 - The pair were still seen on territory, and the nest appeared refurbished. By May this nest was not being used, no new nest was found and breeding was not confirmed.
July 2015 - Chester was identified sitting on a pylon in Rowlands Gill with a second kite, whilst a third kite was flying and calling nearby.
October 2015 - Chester was seen near Hollinside Lane with two other untagged kites, one a juvenile.
November 2015 - Chester was identified with another kite perched on a pylon in Rowlands Gill. This was very likely to be his partner WT32 Red Arrow from their behaviour - rubbing beaks and seeing other kites off.
February 2016 - Chester was identified several times this month - on one occasion at pre-roost at Thornley Gardens perched on a pylon with several juveniles in attendance. He was also noted several times around the Far Pastures area sometimes interacting with another kite and hopes for a territory were high, but no active nest was found.
September 2016 - Chester was noted on two occasions perched on a pylon at a small pre-roost near Thornley Gardens with four other kites.
October 2016 - Chester was seen on two occasions near Thornley Nurseries, perched on his usual pylon - once chasing off a juvenile kite, and another time sitting happily with another kite both being very territorial and seeing off any other kites.
November 2016 - Chester was seen on one occasion near Thornley Gardens, perched on his usual pylon.
December 2016 - Chester was again seen on one occasion on his territory near Thornley Kennels with WT15 Red Philip and WT K6 close by.
October 2017 - Chester was identified at a pre-roost near Hollinside Lane, Rowlands Gill with eight other kites also present.
November 2017 - Chester was identified late in November at a pre-roost near Thornley Gardens, Rowlands Gill acting very territorially, calling loudly and seeing off other kites.
December 2017 - Chester was identified at the pre-roost at Lockhaugh, Rowlandfs Gill.
January 2018 - Chester and H5 were identified early in the month at a pre-roost near Hollin Hill Farm, Rowlands Gill.
January, February, March 2018 - Chester and his partner were seen regularly on territory near Rowlands Gill, and also displaying against other pairs.
April 2018 - some signs of nest refurbishment early in the month, but by mid April the nest was not active.
Latest Sighting: October 2018 – Chester and L2 were identified early in the month dropping in to roost at Lockhaugh Meadow with approximately 20 kites in total.
Kite No: 77
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Broady Whipper
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Broadwood Primary School, Denton Burn, Newcastle.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In mid September 2006, Broady Whipper explored Holywell Dene in North Tyneside but soon returned to Gateshead. He is regularly recorded around the lower Derwent Valley and Barlow area.
On 10th September 2007, Broady Whipper was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months Broady Whipper has regularly been roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill and also at Gibside.
In Spring 2008, Broady Whipper was seen displaying with WT60 (Welbeck Whistler) in the Derwent valley. They built a nest together but did not successfully raise any chicks.
Since mid-September 2008, Broady Whipper has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
He was not seen again until 2009 when he successfully fledged one chick, not tagged, with WT60 at a new site in Rowlands Gill.
The following year, in Spring 2010, it was confirmed Broady Whipper had split from WT60 (now partnered with WT C1 at Gibside), and he attempted to breed with an unidentified kite, that failed in the early stages.
He was not seen for a year, but then identified in May 2011 flying over a new territory to the south of Rowlands Gill, the nest was not located, therefore the outcome remains uncertain.
May 2011 - south of Rowlands Gill, Gateshead - flying over a new territory.
April 2012 - perched and calling in a conifer plantation at the west end of Rowlands Gill.
27/11/2012 - Highfield, Rowlands Gill - Identified from photograph (PR).
12/01/2013 - West end of Rowlands Gill - has been seen regularly in resident's garden (JB).
Feb/March - seen regularly around Orchard Tce and Orchard Road, with sticks on one occasion
08/04/2013 - perched in tree near Friarside, Rowlands Gill, then patrolling territory over Strother Hills and Orchard Road. Nest not found and outcome unknown.
28/09/2013 - Perched in conifer at the top of Orchard Road and calling.
March 2014 - Broady Whipper noted regularly on territory in Orchard Road, but the nest was not found.
August 2014 - Broady Whipper and his unknown partner succesfully fledged at least one chick - a local resident noted plenty of calling from a juvenile kite on this territory.
February and March 2015 - Broady Whipper was seen on his territory in Rowlands Gill and kites were seen in this area on several occasions.
Latest Sighting: April 2015 - a single kite was seen on territory but no further breeding activity was recorded.
Kite No: 78
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Orange
Kite Name: Cedars Cyclone
Fledged: 2005 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: The Cedars School, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Cedars Cyclone originally fledged naturally from her nest in the Chilterns in July 2005. Unfortunately, she was found within a few days on the ground, underweight and requiring rehabilitation (it was thought she had been mobbed by crows and was brought down to the ground). She was transferred to the Northern Kites Project, but soon after her release to the wild in August was brought back into captivity. Over a period of month's, attempts were made to exercise her to help build up her flight muscles. She flew off for a week of freedom in February 2006 but was soon back in captivity. Unfortunately, during her exercise in late May 2006, she was mobbed by crows once again, grounding her and eventually killing her. Sadly, this is nature's way of birds defending territories and filtering out the weak so the strongest survive.
Latest Sighting: May 2006 - lower Derwent Valley, Gateshead - deceased, mobbed and killed by crows.
Kite No: 79
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Mulberry
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Brandling Primary School, Felling, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Mulberry is regularly detected at his usual haunts in Gateshead.
During the winter months Mulberry has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In spring 2008, Mulberry and WT33 (Storm) were seen displaying in the Derwent valley. They built a nest together and have successfully raised two chicks. The chicks have been fitted with leg rings and wing tags C1 and C2 respectively. Both chicks fledged in July 2008.
On 15th September 2008, Mulberry was seen flying with four other kites over Rowlands Gill in Gateshead.
On 2nd April 2009, Mulberry was seen at Snipes Dene in Gibside National Trust estate, Gateshead, and in the November he was identified flying over High Thornley, near Rowlands Gill.
In January 2010, Mulberry was identified at the winter roost at Snipes Dene, and then in March at a possible new territory with his partner WT33, near High Thornley. Three days later, the pair were identified at Hollinside Manor. Their nest was never located, but it is possible they were an unidentified pair that successfully fledged two chicks (tagged D4 & D5) at a new territory in Gateshead's Derwent Park in 2010.
During winter 2010/2011 Mulberry was a regular visitor at the pre-roost at Hollinside Manor.
In spring of 2011 Mulberry and his partner WT33, were identified at the territory in Gateshead's Derwent Park, where last year two unidentified kites had successfully fledged two chicks (see above), but they failed at the incubation stage - April 2011.
Recorded at pre roost near Hollinside Manor on the 21st November 2011.
March 2012 - Mulberry was seen regularly on territory with his partnerStorm (WT33). They built a nest approx. 75 metres west of last years and on June 25th two very well feathered chicks, close to fledging, were seen in the nest.
15/10/2012 - recorded at pre roost, Hollinside Manor.
09/11/2012 - noted on territory at the west side of Paddock Hill
By mid March Mulberry was back on territory with his mate WT33 and were refurbishing last years nest by the end of the month.
15/04/2013 - Perched near nest site on the west side of Paddock Hill, in the Derwent Country Park, Gateshead. Female incubating.
2 chicks were hatched by May, but by June 2013 it was confirmed the nest had failed, possible predation by crows.
March 2014 - Mulberry and his partner Storm WT33 were initially on their old territory and they were seen carrying nesting material.
June 2014 - it was confirmed they had moved to a new location in Rowlands Gill, the nest was not found but a juvenile was seen perched in a tree.
July 2014 - seen on territory with chick perched close by.
February 2015 - Mulberry and his partner Storm (WT33) were seen near their old nest site in Rowlands Gill.
April 2015 - the pair were found back at their 2013 nest site at Paddock Hill, with Storm incubating and Mulberry seeing off corvids. The nest subsequently failed, probably from predation.
March 2018 - Mulberry and his partner were in territorial disputes with the neighbours, and bringing in nesting material on their territory near Rowlands Gill.
April and May 2018 - still in territorial disputes with the neighbours, a new nest found and on 16th April the female was noted incubating then brooding young on 21st May whilst Mulberry was in attendance.
June 2018 - at least two chicks in the nest, with parents alarm calling.
Latest Sighting: July 2018 - the chicks successfully fledged.
Kite No: 80
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Sky Diver
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: New Hartley First School, Cramlington, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Sky Diver is regularly seen flying in the Barlow area.
In spring 2007 he was seen building a nest with WT34 (Parochial Poppy), however, they did not breed successfully.
During the winter months Sky Diver has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
In Spring 2008, Sky Diver and WT34 paired up again, however, they did not successfully raise any chicks.
On 15th September 2008, Sky Diver was seen at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead. He was also recorded at the roost on 16th October 2008.
On 23rd March 2009, Sky Diver's partner, WT34, was seen foraging in field of winter cereal in High Spen, Gateshead, with WTA3 trying to woo her. Sky Diver appeared and chased WTA3 away but after a few minutes he drifted back. WTA3 eventually moved on after getting chased by Sky Diver for a second time. This pair were seen on territory in the Barlow Burn, but no nest was found.
In March 2010 Sky Diver was seen in the company of WT43 Swift, who was confirmed as his new partner, as they successfully fledged one chick, tagged E2, in the Blaydon Burn.
Sky Diver was then seen at the winter roost at Snipes Dene in January 2011. He has not been seen since, and his partner WT43 Swift, then successfully paired up with WT15 Red Philip.
Latest Sighting: January 2011 - Snipes Dene, Gibside, Gateshead - identified at the winter roost.
Kite No: 81
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Scorcher
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Warkworth Church of England (Aided) First School, Warkworth, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: For the first few weeks after release, WT81 was detected in the lower Derwent valley. However, in mid-August he was found undernourished and struggling to fly. He was taken back into the pens for feeding and was released after gaining weight in late August. Scorcher is regularly detected in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn area.
In spring 2007, Scorcher was seen displaying with WT32, they set up a territory but did not nest. In mid-June, following several days of heavy rain, the staff at Gibside National Trust estate found Scorcher on the ground soaked through and underweight. Scorcher was taken into rehabilitation and following several weeks of special care and attention he has made a full recovery. He was released back into the Derwent valley in late-July.
On 10th September 2007, Scorcher was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months Scorcher has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
Latest Sighting: April 2008 - Gateshead.
Kite No: 82
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: No name given
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: St. John's Chapel, Weardale, Co Durham.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Unfortunately in mid September, WT82's body was found in Gateshead next to a wooden electricity pylon. Following post mortem, it was deemed that her death was caused by electrocution; she must have made contact with the cables.
Latest Sighting: September 2006 - Gateshead - deceased, probable electrocution.
Kite No: 83
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Red Saint
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: St Agnes Day Nursery School, Crawcrook, Gateshead.
Brief Summary: For the first few weeks after release, WT83 was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley. However, his exploring took him away from Gateshead where he was last detected on 26th July 2006. In late September, WT83 was detected in the Holywell Dene area of North Tyneside where he has been seen since. However, in mid December 2006 WT83 returned to Gateshead where he has joined the kites in the communal winter roost.
In spring 2007, Red Saint seemed to pair off with WT89, though this did not last. He is still regularly recorded in the lower Derwent valley.
During the winter months Red Saint has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
On 11th February 2008, Red Saint was seen with five other kites feeding in a field and perching on fence posts just north of the Barlow Burn.
In spring 2008, Red Saint set up a territory near Tanfield in County Durham with an as yet unidentified female. They successfully raised one chick that fledged in July 2008.
On 9th October 2008, Red Saint was roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
On 23rd February 2009, Red Saint was recorded at Causey Gill in County Durham and seen there again in early March 2009. He went on to successfully fledge one chick, untagged, with his unknown partner. The following year, 2010, this pair successfully fledged two chicks, untagged.
In 2011 Red Saint and his untagged partner kept our monitoring team guessing, first moving to a new territory near Beamish Golf course, and then moving again to the Beamish Bird of Prey centre, where they went on to successfully fledge two chicks, not tagged.
Red Saint also showed some interest in a captive female red kite here, dropping twigs in to her cage, and also becoming involved in some of the display activities.
June 2011 - Beamish Bird of Prey Centre, Co Durham - successfully fledged two chicks with his untagged partner.
December 2011 - the pair became very unpopular with the staff of the Bird of Prey Centre when they chased of a black kite during a flying display there. The Black Kite was never seen again.
Early March 2012 - building a new nest, still in the same tree, with partner, an untagged female.
Late March - the pair built another nest in a pine tree directly above the black kite pen in the Bird of Prey Centre. Red Saint and his untagged partner went on to raise two chicks which fledged in early July,
July 2012 - noted on territory.
October 2012 - recorded twice at pre roost in the Derwent Valley, perched on a pylon near Hollinside Manor.
April 2013 - pair of kites perched in a tree at South Causey, this may have been Red Saint and his untagged partner, who were believed to have moved near to the golf course - some activity on his territiory but no new nest found.
February and March 2015 - Red Saint and his untagged partner were seen near the Beamish Bird of Prey Centre, and seen with nesting material. The nest was not found and breeding was not confirmed.
March 2016 - Red Saint and his Untagged partner were noted on their territory at Causey Gill, and at times defending their nest site from a pair of buzzards also nesting near by.
April and May 2016 - Red Saint was noted being very protective of the nest site, whilst the female was first incubating then brooding chicks.
June 2016 - Red Saint and his partner went on to successfully fledge two chicks, too big to ring or wing tag.
February and March 2017 - Red Saint and his untagged partner were noted on their territory at Causey Gill, or patrolling the woodland.
April and May 2017 - In April Red Saint was noted being very protective of the nest site, indicating the nest was close by. By May there were two chicks seen in the nest with one of the adults perched on the side.
June 2017 - early in June two chicks were noted in the nest and becoming well feathered, whilst the adults were alarm calling near by. Subsequently the two chicks were ringed and wing tagged N0 and N1.
July 2017 - By early July the nest was empty and the chicks had fledged.
February and March 2018 - Pair were seen on territory over nest wood at Causey, and one seen carrying nesting material. (WT83 Red Saint is the male here).
April and May 2018 - On 20th April the female was noted incubating, then brooding young by 24th May, the male was in attendance and calling.
June 2018 - Two chicks were ringed only.
July 2018 - Both chicks successfully fledged, and the family of four were seen flying together over the nest wood.
Spring 2019 - Red Saint and partner regularly seen on territory. and have built a nest in a wood near Causey.
09/06/19 - Two well feathered chicks observed in nest. the chicke were too big toring and wing tag.
July 2019 - red saint and partner successfully fledged two chicks
Spring 2020 - Red Saint (83) has lost his tags and is identifiable from his transmitter areal. He and his partner refurbished the nest in a wood near Causey they used in 2018 .
04/06/20 - At least 2 chicks were seen in the nest., parents circlingoverhead.
08/06/20 - Three chicks were ringed and tagged (P0, P1 & P2.), parents alarming nearby.
Latest Sighting: July 2020 Red Saint (wing tag 83) and his partner successfully fledged three chicks.
Kite No: 84
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Shiver
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Barmston Village Primary School, Sunderland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. In early November 2006, Shiver was detected near Hexham but returned to Gateshead. She is regularly recorded in the Barlow Burn area.
On 10th September 2007, Shiver was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
In spring 2008, Shiver was seen displaying with WTA5 (Ponteland Sunrise) though they did not nest together. On 27th June 2008 Shiver was recorded at Beda Hills in Gateshead.
On 15th September 2008, Shiver was recorded at Gibside National Trust estate in Gateshead. On 25th October, Shiver was recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
On 23rd February 2009, Shiver was seen perched in a tree at Whickham golf course in Gateshead.
Shiver was not seen again until the following year, where at his territory near Causey, Co Durham, it was confirmed he successfully fledged one chick, not tagged, with his partner red/purple T2, a 2007 kite from the mid Scotland Project. In August he was identified near his territory.
On three occasions in January and February 2011, he was identified at the winter roosts and pre-roosts at Snipes Dene and Hollinside Manor. Shiver and his Scottish partner wing tag red/purple T2, then went on to successfully fledge three chicks, two tagged F0 & F1, at their territory near Causey.
Recorded at the pre roost near Hollinside Manor on the 12th November and observed on territory in the Causey Gill on 10th December 2011.
March 2012 - refurbishing last years nest with partner red/purple T2.
The pair went on to raise a single chick which was ringed and wing tagged (F2) on June 19th. 30th June 2012 - photographed at the nest site.
Latest Sighting: On the 13th July he was found dead on Redcar beach. It is thought that the kite had perished in bad weather and then was taken out to sea via the rivers Team & Tyne. The tide and currents would then have taken it down to Redcar. Had been partnered with R/P T2.
Kite No: 85
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Rothbury Rosie
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Rothbury First School, Rothbury, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Rothbury Rosie was regularly seen flying around the Barlow Burn area until 12th March 2007. She has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: March 2007 - Barlow Burn, Gateshead.
Kite No: 86
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Red Fred
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Beaufront County First School, Hexham, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years.
In late August, WT86 left Gateshead to explore other areas. A feint signal was detected in Gateshead for this kite in mid December 2006.
Red Fred was not detected again until 26th September 2007, when he was recorded at Barlow Burn.
On 23rd March 2008, Red Fred was detected near Hexham in south west Northumberland.
In spring 2008 Red Fred set up a territory with an untagged female in south west Northumberland. They successfully raised one chick that fledged in July 2008.
In 2009 Red Fred and his partner again successfully fledged one chick, untagged.
There have been no sightings since.
Latest Sighting: July 2009 - south west Northumberland - successfully fledged one chick with his untagged partner.
Kite No: 87
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: George
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: George Washington Primary School, Sunderland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. George is regularly detected in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn area.
On 10th September 2007, George was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months George has regularly been recorded at the Gibside winter roost.
On 3rd March 2008, George was detected at Axwell Park in Gateshead. This has been followed by no sightings since.
On 5th March 2009, having gone undetected for a year, George was recorded just west of Birtley in County Durham, he was seen flying with Farra Flame (WTA4). This pair went on to build a nest, which was subsequently abandoned.
George was not seen again until November 2010, near a nest site to the west of Chopwell, where a Green tagged kite had been identified as one of a pair that successfully fledged three chicks, untagged, earlier in the year.
Although there was some refurbishment of this nest in 2011, it was never confirmed that George was one of the pair, and the nest was then abandoned.
Latest Sighting: November 2010 - near Chopwell, Gateshead - near a possible nest site.
Kite No: 89
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Kitty
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: St John's Chapel Primary School, Weardale, County Durham.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years.
In spring 2007, Kitty seemed to pair off with WT83, though this did not last. Kitty is regularly seen flying in the lower Derwent valley and Barlow area.
During the winter months Kitty has regularly been roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill and also at Gibside.
In spring 2008, Kitty was seen displaying with WT63 (Polo) and they built a nest together near Hamsterley in County Durham. Kitty was seen incubating however their eggs did not hatch.
On 8th September 2008, Kitty was seen near Hamsterley in County Durham.
On 25th September 2008, she was seen roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
Kitty was not seen again until spring 2009, where she went on to successfully fledge one chick, tagged C5, with her partner Polo. In the September she was seen at the winter roost at Sherburn Towers.
In 2010 this pair again successfully fledged two chicks, tagged E0 & E1.
In 2011 Kitty and Polo failed in their breeding attempt at Derwentcote.
March 2012 - seen regularly on territory at Derwentcote/Blackhall Mill.
Despite failing last year the pair used the same nest as last year and hatched a brood three chicks. But disater struck when stong winds blew two of the chicks out of the nest.during the night of 22nd & 23rd of June. One of the grounded chicks was found dead directly under the nest but the other survived and was taken to the rehab. pen. Wing Tagged F6.
June 2012 - flying over nest wood.
March 2013 - building new nest with partner WT63 near the site of 2011 nest at Derwentcote.
May 2013 Kitty was noted incubating but by June the nest had failed, possible predation.
February 2014 - Polo and Kitty were again on their territory. In April Kitty was noted incubating, and the pair went on to successfully fledge three chicks - two were tagged H2 and H3.
June 2014 - on territory with her partner and three chicks.
February and March 2015 - Kitty and her partner Polo (WT63) were seen on territory at Derwentcote, defending their territory from other kites, and with nesting material to refurbish their nest.
April and May 2015 - kites were still seen on territory, and by May there was thought to be a chick in the nest. The nest subsequently failed - believed to be from predation.
February and March 2016 - There was regular activity from the resident pair Kitty and her partner WT63 Polo on their Derwentcote territory, and last year's nest was refurbished.
May 2016 - Kitty was noted incubating/brooding on the 9th May.
June 2016 - the chicks were becoming well feathered, and this pair went on to successfully fledge three chicks, all ringed and wing tagged L5, L6 and L7.
February and March 2017 - There was regular activity from the resident pair Kitty and her partner WT63 Polo patrolling over and near their Derwentcote territory. On one occasion in February a 2016 juvenile WTL0 from the Urpeth nest was noted nearby.
April and May 2017 - Kitty was noted incubating on the 24th April with Polo close by, and on the 18th May Kitty was noted brooding young.
June 2017 - early in June two chicks were noted in the nest and becoming well feathered, whilst the adults were flying near by. Subsequently three chicks were all ringed and wing tagged N5, N6 and N7.
Latest Sighting: July 2017 - early in July the nest was empty with the chicks having fledged - two chicks (N6 & N7) were perched in a tree and the other chick (N5) flying.
Kite No: 90
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Firebolt
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: St Catherine's RC Primary School, Newcastle.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years.
In mid August, WT90 left Gateshead to explore other areas.
On 4th December 2006, a signal was detected for Firebolt near Lilburn Grange in Northumberland.
However, on 15th February 2007, Firebolt was back in Gateshead. She was recorded at the communal winter roost in Rowlands Gill, along with 25 other kites.
She was not detected in Gateshead again until 20th August 2007, when she was recorded at Barlow Burn.
Firebolt is now regularly recorded in the Barlow area of Gateshead.
Firebolt was last recorded in mid-April 2008, at Gibside.
Latest Sighting: April 2008 - Gibside, Gateshead
Kite No: 91
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Fudge
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Little Rascals Nursery, Durham.
Brief Summary: For the first few weeks after release, WT91 was detected feeding and foraging in the Lower Derwent Valley.
However, her exploring took her away from Gateshead where she was last detected on 25th July 2006.
On the 4th December 2006 she was detected with the kites at the Harewood Estate in Yorkshire.
Fudge was not recorded again until 12th October 2007, when a faint signal from her transmitter was detected in the lower Derwent valley in Gateshead.
Latest Sighting: October 2007 - lower Derwent Valley, Gateshead.
Kite No: 92
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Sunrise
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Hotspur Primary School, Newcastle.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years. Sunrise is regularly detected in the Rowlands Gill and Barlow Burn area. In May 2007, Sunrise briefly visited Wylam in Northumberland. However, it was not long before he was back visiting his usual haunts in Gateshead.
On 10th September 2007, Sunrise was observed foraging in a cut hay field, just south of Gibside, with seven other kites.
During the winter months Sunrise has regularly been roosting near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill and also at Gibside.
In spring 2008 Sunrise was seen displaying with WT70 (Christi) near Hamsterley Mill in County Durham. The pair built a nest together and have successfully raised three chicks - the most raised by any Northern kite in the north east so far.
In early October 2008, Sunrise was detected near Muggleswick in County Durham.
On 31st October 2008, Sunrise was seen flying over Dipton in County Durham.
On 6th April 2009, Sunrise was seen perched with partner WT70 in woodland near Hamsterley Hall. He went on to successfully fledge two chicks, not tagged, with WT70.
This pair again successfully fledged a further two chicks, not tagged, in 2010.
However in 2011, although there was activity at this territory early in the season, the old nest was not used, and a new nest not found.
Latest Sighting: April 2011 - near Hamsterley Hall, Co Durham - kites active near nest territory.
Kite No: 93
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Amber
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Malvins Close First School, Blyth, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Since release this kite, like so many of the other kites released in 2006, has spent its first summer exploring the lower Derwent valley and Barlow Burn looking for food (carrion and beetles) and socialising with each other and kites released in previous years.
In mid September, WT93 left Gateshead and explored the area around Blanchland and Slaley in Northumberland, but returned to Gateshead by the end of the month.
Amber was regularly recorded in the Gateshead area until 21st March 2007. This has been followed by no detections since.
Latest Sighting: March 2007 - Gateshead.
Kite No: 94
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: Sky Hunter
Fledged: 2006 Chilterns
Male/Female: Male
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Cotherstone Primary School, Teesdale, Co Durham.
Brief Summary: After release, WT 94 did not spend much time exploring Gateshead's countryside.
He soon disappeared and was not detected until mid-August when he was seen exploring the Simonside Hills in Northumberland. In late August, WT94 arrived in Teesdale spending time foraging with the kites in that area. Sky Hunter last recorded in Teesdale on 3rd October 2006. He has not been detected since.
Latest Sighting: October 2006 - Teesdale, Co Durham.
Kite No: 95
Wing Tag Left/Right: Pink/Green
Kite Name: No name given
Fledged: 2004 Chilterns
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Unknown
Adopt a Kite School: Not adopted
Brief Summary: WT95 is actually a 2 year old wild bred kite from the Chilterns, originally with wing tags A6. She was taken into captivity in the Chilterns due to illness and after care from Tiggy Winkles Animal Hospital and further rehabilitation from Raptor Rescue it was thought she would do well if released under the Northern Kites project adding an adult female to releases in Gateshead. Her A6 tags were replaced with WT95 and she was deemed fit for release. However, only a few days after release, she was taken back into captivity as she was spotted struggling to fly. Upon capture, she was underweight and received some extra food to build her strength back up. A second release was attempted, but again was unsuccessful so now an exercise regime will be followed to encourage her to fly properly. Unfortunately in early October, WT95 was released again but sadly did not make it through her first night in the wild as she was predated upon by a fox.
Latest Sighting: October 2006 - Gibside, Gateshead - deceased, predated on by a fox
Kite No: O/G 1
Wing Tag Left/Right: Orange/Green
Kite Name: Soar
Fledged: 2006 Harewood Estate, Yorkshire
Male/Female: Female
Parents: Father- WT O/P 1 / Mother- WT O/P T
Adopt a Kite School: Ponteland Community Middle School, Ponteland, Northumberland.
Brief Summary: Soar was reared in a nest on Harewood Estate in north Yorkshire in 2006, she was one of a brood of two. Soar's father is Orange/Pink 1, born in 2000 and the first kite born in Yorkshire to be wing tagged after releases began in 1999. Soar's mother is Orange/Pink T, released in Yorkshire in 2000. This pair have been breeding successfully since 2001. Soar was first recorded in Gateshead on 5th November 2007, feeding on a pheasant carcass at the bottom of Lintzford Lane. On 4th April 2008, Soar was seen foraging around Balfour Utilities just off Thornley Lane in Rowlands Gill. During spring 2008, Soar was seen displaying in the Derwent valley with WT68 (Lyons Lightning). They went on to build a nest together and have raised one chick. The chick was fitted with a leg ring and wing tags B3. On 28th July 2008, Soar was seen flying with partner WT68 and chick WTB3 near Barlow in Gateshead. Since mid-September 2008, Soar has regularly been recorded at the red kite winter roost near Sherburn Towers housing estate in Rowlands Gill, Gateshead.
In 2009 Soar and her partner WT68 again successfully fledged two chicks, tagged C3 & C4. But in 2010 their breeding attempt failed.
Soar was seen twice in January 2011, once at the winter roost at Snipes Dene, and once at the pre-roost at Hollinside Manor. She then went on to successfully fledge two chicks, untagged, with her partner WT68. In August she was identified feeding in a recently harvested field near Winlaton with several other kites, including her partner Lyons Lightning, and one of their 2009 chicks, C3.
August 2011 - Winlaton, Gateshead - feeding in a recently harvested field with several other kites. The pair used last years nest. and on the 15th April she was observed incubating the eggs. On the 19th June a dead chick was found in the nest. It must have succumbed to the cold and wet conditions that has been a feature of the weather this year. There were also two unhatched eggs in the nest.
June - at the nest following failure.
10th November 2012 - at the main roost near the Nine Arches Viaduct in Gateshead's Derwent Valley.
03/12/2012 - recorded at pre roost in Paddock Hill.
Recorded at the main roost, Paddock Hill in January.
June 2013 - Soar and her partner Lyons Lighning were found to have moved to a new territory in Thornley Woods where they successfully fledged two chicks, not ringed or wing tagged.
February 2014 - Soar was tempted away from her previous partner by Red Philip (WT15) and they built a new nest near Hagg Hill Farm in the Derwent Valley, just west of Axwell Park. The pair went on to successfully raise two chicks. Not ringed or wing tagged.
June 2014 - at nest site feeding young.
March 2015 - Soar was identified from a photograph foraging in a field to the west of Winlaton.
February and March 2015 - Soar was noted on territory at Hagg Hill Farm near Winlaton Mill early in the season, but following her partner Red Philip's (WT15) road traffic accident in March, although she stayed on territory to begin with, she later paired up with an untagged kite near Thornley Woods.
April and May 2015 - Soar was noted on her new territory in April incubating, but by May this nest had failed, reason unknown. NB Red Philip had a period in rehabilitation before being re-released on his territory.
February 2017 - O/G 1 (a Yorkshire kite) was seen flying low over a field near the nest wood near Barlow.
March 2018 - Soar was identified with an untagged kite in territorial disputes near a territory off Thornley Lane.
Latest Sighting: April 2018 - Soar was again identified in territorial disputes near territories close to Thornley Lane, but she was never confirmed as the female on either territory here.