Red Kites generate millions for economy in Dumfries and Galloway
A new report has found that tourists spend £8.2 million in Dumfries and Galloway after travelling to see Red Kites, according to Birdguides.com.
These raptor species was reintroduced to an area north of Castle Douglas from 2001 and two years later the Galloway Kite Trail — a self-guided tour circling Loch Ken — was launched as a partnership project led by RSPB Scotland.
An economic survey carried out by the conservation organisation found that between 2004 and 2015 the trail attracted more than 100,000 visitors to the area and that £8.2m of spending was directly attributable to people who came to the region to see Red Kites. On average, the trail also supported the equivalent of 19 full-time jobs each year; that figure rose to 21 in 2015.
Calum Murray, RSPB Scotland Community Liaison Officer, said: “The re-introduction of Red Kite has been a massive conservation success story and we now have over 100 pairs breeding in Dumfries and Galloway, but this survey clearly demonstrates how nature can bring economic benefits to areas as well.
“Tourists are visiting the Galloway Kite Trail from all over the UK and many are coming here especially to see our amazing Red Kites. The report also shows the fantastic support that is being given to the trail by local businesses and many of our visitors are now making repeat trips.”
(Photo: Phillip Hill)
