Red Kites at Helsbury
We have recently been very excited by the Red Kites we have spotted flying over Helsbury. Unlike Buzzards, which are relatively common to the area, it is more unusual to see Red Kites in Cornwall. Whilst the two birds share some similarities which can make them difficult to differentiate, there are some differences which can help you to tell them apart. Here is a quick guide of these variations.
A Tail of Two Birds
The most distinct difference between the Red Kite and the Buzzard is their tails. Red Kites have a longer, forked tail that twists in flight. The Buzzard, however, has a shorter fanned tail.
Wings Were Made to Fly
There are differences in the wings and flight patterns of the two birds. The Red Kite has long, slightly angled wings. They are also bowed when soaring whilst the Buzzard’s broad wings are held in a shallow ‘V’ when soaring. The Red Kite glides through the sky, occasionally beating its wings in a relaxed manner. Contrastingly, the Buzzard flaps more frequently.
The Difference is in the Details
Other details to look out for is the size. Whilst this might be somewhat difficult to make out when they are in the sky, the Red Kite is slender and has a longer wingspan than Buzzards. Buzzards are more compact. If you can see their plumage from the ground (maybe get yourself some binoculars) then you might also be able to tell the difference by their patterning. Red Kites are brightly patterned with reddish-brown feathers whilst Buzzards are generally brown with a pale underbelly.
Wildlife at Helsbury
Hopefully you see some Red Kites and Buzzards at Helsbury. Wildlife spotting is a relaxing and fascinating activity and there is plenty of it to be done at Helsbury. Whether you enjoy bird spotting, sitting by the river and spotting fish, trying to see some deer, or identifying plants, there is a lot of opportunity for this at Helsbury.
Whilst we encourage you to have fun and engage with the wildlife at your fingertips, we also ask that you respect the creatures great and small that we share Helsbury with. Leave them plenty of space, don’t try and get too close to them. Use binoculars to see them more clearly. Keep your dogs on leads so they don’t chase any of the wildlife (for their safety and your dog’s safety). And try not to scare the wildlife with any loud, sudden noises.
We would love to see any pictures of wildlife you do see at Helsbury. Tag us on Instagram @helsburypark to share anything you spot with us.