Broedende Rode Wouwen Milvus milvus in Nederland in 2021

In 2021, 35 breeding pairs of Red Kites were located in The Netherlands (including one just across the border and another of which the nest site remained elusive despited nest-building activities). Fifteen out of 34 nests were successful; 7 pairs did not commence egg-laying and 11 pairs failed (mostly during the egg stage, for unknown reasons). The number of chicks per successful pair was: 2x 1, 4x 2 and 9x 3, i.e. 1.1 fledglings per pair and 2.5 fledglings per successful pair. Start of laying ranged from 19 March through 10 May, and averaged 10 April. Breeding success was low (< 0.5 fledglings/pair) in the regions of Twente, southern Achterhoek/Liemers and central Limburg, i.e. the areas with most recent and new settlements and failed breeding attempts (first-time breeders?). A total of 26 nestlings were colour-ringed, and seven nestlings were equipped with a GPS sender; the latter’s movements can be followed via www.grauwekiekendief.nl.