An examination of the ring on the bird’s leg found it was 9,518 days old, having been ringed as a nestling in June 1997.
RSPCA wildlife officer Ellie West said: “This was such a beautiful bird – and I could tell that it was an adult and of a good age.
“Unfortunately, due to the extent of the kite’s condition, it meant that the bird could not be helped and was put to sleep to prevent further suffering. “I could not believe it as this bird was 26 years old – and was found in pretty much the same area they were ringed in all those years ago,” Ms West said.“It is very sad that the bird didn’t make it but at least they didn’t suffer a lingering death.“I’m sure they had a full life and it would be lovely to think that it may have reared several offspring over the years in the area too – although the sex is unknown.
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