The birds are protected by law

Nine of the rare birds have been raised at a secret location in Dumfries and Galloway by conservationists who are trying to restore the area's red kite population.

RSPB Scotland and Scottish Natural Heritage are backing the Dumfries and Galloway Red Kite Project, which has already succeeded in rearing the first chick in the area for more than 100 years.

The kites were transported from wild nests in northern Scotland and the Chilterns in the hope that they will make their own nests in Dumfries and Galloway, once home to a thriving kite population.

The birds are protected by law, but have fallen victim to illegal poisoning which conservationists claim is linked to shooting parties.

This is the first time that red kites have bred in Dumfries and Galloway since 1870 Kevin Duffy Project officer

This is the first time that red kites have bred in Dumfries and Galloway since 1870.

Five red kites which were released in the first two years of the project have been found poisoned.

Red kite project officer Kevin Duffy said: "This is the first time that red kites have bred in Dumfries and Galloway since 1870 and we can really start to feel that all the hard work and co-operation between the partner organisations and local landowners is beginning to pay off.

"Red kites are spectacular birds and they are already beginning to draw visitors into the area."

Mr Duffy added that a Galloway Kite Trail aimed at luring tourists to the area was due to open in September.