What to feed red kites?

[Ringo1968]

What can we put out to feed red kites ? I know they are scavengers but what is the best type of meat to put out for them?

[RKB]

They will eat any meat scraps, or leftover bones, or bread soaked in fat. But you must not give them anything salty (including fat if salt has been used on the meat). If you've put salt on your dinner then rinse the bones under a tap first.

Big bones from the butcher are also good, but best (and cheapest) of all is roadkill rabbits. Lay them on their back with a slit in their belly so the kites can get access. Woodpigeons or Pheasants are also good and common. Open up the carcass a bit and scatter a few feathers around to attract them.

You need to place this stuff somewhere open, where the kites will more easily come to it, away from wires etc. They will swoop down into very small areas, such as gardens, but it can take a long time before they get the hang of this in a new place. They can be a bit nervous, but will land and feed when they feel relaxed, or do a smash and grab for small bits.