Wildlife

Grey Heron Welfare at Urban and Rural Rookeries

Grey herons nest colonially in trees and face disturbance at rookeries, as well as secondary poisoning from rodenticide use in their catchments.

Key Facts

Grey herons are among the most widespread waterbirds in Europe
They nest colonially in tall trees and are vulnerable to tree felling during nesting
Rodenticide secondary poisoning through eating contaminated prey is increasing
Lead poisoning from ingested fishing weights causes progressive neurological decline
Herons at ornamental ponds are sometimes persecuted by pond owners

Welfare Considerations

Tree felling during the breeding season destroys active nests, killing eggs and chicks. Lead poisoning from fishing weights causes paralysis and slow death. Rodenticide secondary poisoning through eating contaminated rodents causes coagulopathic symptoms and prolonged suffering. Illegal shooting at fish ponds causes wounding and slow death from untreated injuries.

What You Can Do

Use non-lead fishing weights to reduce heron lead poisoning
Support campaigns for first-generation rodenticide use only reducing secondary poisoning
Oppose tree felling during breeding season near known rookeries
Donate to wildlife hospital programs treating injured herons
Advocate for legal protection enforcement for herons at ornamental ponds