Rotmilan-Winterschlafplatz Nordhessen

About this spectacle

In the rolling hills and farmland of northern Hesse, Germany, red kites gather at communal winter roost sites as dusk falls. Dozens — sometimes hundreds — of these elegant raptors with their distinctive forked tails and rich chestnut plumage converge above the tree lines, wheeling and calling before dropping into their roost trees for the night. The spectacle unfolds in the cold, still air of the German winter, with the birds silhouetted against fading skies. Observers standing quietly at woodland edges may watch wave after wave of kites gliding in on long, bowed wings. The soundscape is punctuated by the birds' high, mewing calls. Northern Hesse's agricultural landscapes provide rich foraging grounds, making it one of the most important red kite wintering regions in central Europe. The experience is best on calm, clear evenings when visibility is sharp and the birds' rufous tones glow briefly in the last light.

When to go

Oct — Mar, peak Nov — Feb

Getting there

Nearest airport: KSF. Nearest city: Kassel.

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