Orlagh, a red kite born in Co. Wicklow in 2023, made history by attempting to nest in Co. Carlow in 2025, a first in over 300 years. Tragically, she was found dead in March 2026 due to poisoning from an illegal pesticide. This incident highlights ongoing issues with wildlife poisoning and the need for public vigilance.
Category: News
Red Kite Talk & Walk, 21.08.25
Red kite in flight (c) Wilson Gardiner As part of Heritage Week 2025 Red Kite Team Members from the NI Raptor Study Group and the Golden Eagle Trust will meet people in the northern home of the red kite near Castlewellan - Co. Down. We will talk to people about the species, the reintroduction and … Continue reading Red Kite Talk & Walk, 21.08.25
Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group Petition to Ban Possession of Dangerous Pesticides supported by 50,000 people!
The NIRSG held a Raptor Conference last weekend which provided incredible insights into a range of topics locally and globally. Many of the talks raised a consistent theme of targeted persecution of birds of prey. Not least among these was the on-going issue in Northern Ireland of the Possession of Dangerous pesticides. The NIRSG highlighted … Continue reading Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group Petition to Ban Possession of Dangerous Pesticides supported by 50,000 people!
White-Tailed Eagles: First breeding pair confirmed in Northern Ireland in over 150 years.
White-tailed Eagles have successfully bred in Northern Ireland for the first time in over 150 years, with a pair fledging a chick in Co. Fermanagh. Reintroduced to the Republic of Ireland from Norway, their return to Northern Ireland highlights the importance of suitable habitats for raptors in the region.
Police appeal for information as Rare ‘White’ Kite shot in Co. Down
Police are appealing for information after the shooting of a protected Red Kite outside Mayobridge, Co. Down, in April 2024.
Be Wildlife Crime Aware – The Disturbance of Nesting Birds
Be wildlife crime aware - the disturbance of nesting birds
Satellite tagged hen harrier found poisoned with carbofuran in Ireland
Satellite tagged juvenile hen harrier from Isle of Man found dead in Co. Meath, confirmed poisoned with banned pesticide carbofuran
