KESTREL-shaped kites are taking flight to help raise awareness of bird of prey persecution.
The kite template, launched by Yorkshire Dales environmental charity Friends of the Dales, is part of its Eyes on the Skies campaign and is available as a free download.
Designed by Gargrave-based kite maker Alan Poxon, the bespoke kite highlights the decline of raptors, particularly in the Yorkshire Dales.
The kites took flight at Skipton's Craven College, where students made and flew the kites as part of their enrichment whilst learning about the campaign and the threats facing birds of prey.
Victoria Alderson, enrichment officer at Craven College, said: "The students have really enjoyed making the kites and then getting outside to fly them.
"Most of them were unaware of birds of prey persecution, so it was the perfect opportunity to have this important conservation conversation with them in an engaging and meaningful way.
"It was also a delight to see all the colourful and creative kestrel variations they came up with."
Despite more than 70 years of legal protection, many birds of prey remain targets of illegal activity.
Several species are now listed as conservation concerns on the UK’s red and amber lists.
Friends of the Dales emphasises the importance of raptors to the natural ecosystem.
The charity said: "Kestrels and other birds of prey are a vital part of a healthy, balanced ecosystem and play an important role in maintaining biodiversity when allowed to live free from persecution."
More information about the campaign, along with the free kite template and petition, is available at www.friendsofthedales.org.uk.
