Hen harriers are one of the most persecuted birds of prey in the UK, with illegal killing on grouse shooting estates keeping populations well below their ecological potential — a welfare and conservation crisis driven by game management economics.
Individual hen harriers killed by poisoning or shooting experience acute welfare harm, while the population suppression represents a broader ecological welfare failure. The economic incentives in grouse shooting create systematic pressure against predator tolerance that is difficult to address through voluntary means alone. Stronger enforcement, mandatory licensing of grouse shooting estates, and GPS monitoring of birds of prey contribute to deterrence and evidence-gathering. Consumer engagement with the economics of driven grouse shooting provides a market lever.