A rare Red Kite has been rescued by Burnham-On-Sea wildlife carers after being discovered trapped inside a food waste skip that had travelled over 40 miles.
The striking bird of prey was spotted by workers at a waste site in Avonmouth as they unloaded a roll-on/roll-off skip which had travelled from from Calne.
The bird was seen flying out of the skip, prompting a closer inspection. Staff contacted the team at Secret World Wildlife Rescue for advice, believing the bird to be a sparrowhawk.
However, when the feathered visitor arrived at the rescue centre the following morning, it was quickly identified as a Red Kite — a rare admission for the centre in East Huntspill.
Covered in food waste and giving off a strong smell, the kite was thankfully uninjured.
After a thorough clean, fluids, and some much-needed rest, the bird has started feeding independently and is showing signs of recovery.
A spokesperson from Secret World Wildlife Rescue said: “It’s not every day we receive a Red Kite, especially one that’s taken such a grubby journey! Soon, this beautiful bird of prey will be transferred to our large aviary to regain flight and preen before being released back into the wild.”
