Red Kites are more common in Wales and Scotland, but have some strongholds in England such as in Oxfordshire and in the Shropshire Hills. Red Kites were introduced in the Derwent Vally nearby between 2004 and 2006 and they can often be seen at Gibside. Although at first glance they are similar to the buzzard when souring, they are easily distinguished by the v-shaped tail. Another interesting difference is their call. Most rapters have some form of screech, but Red Kites whistle. The call can be difficult to pick up, as it can sound like a human whistling, rather like a shepherd giving instructions to a sheepdog.

A good place to look for Red Kites at Gibside is the Orangery. If you look west over the Derwent Valley into the distance - that's where the kites can often been seen, usually over farmland (best viewed with binoculars). However, if you are really lucky, they will fly right over your head while you are on the estate. This one (one of several) was flying over the woods around the stables courtyard.