Raptor Conservation and Illegal Persecution

Birds of prey in the UK face ongoing illegal persecution through shooting, poisoning, and nest destruction, causing significant welfare impacts and hampering conservation efforts.

Key Facts

All UK raptors are fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
Hen harriers, golden eagles, and red kites are among species most affected by illegal persecution
Satellite-tagged raptors disappear disproportionately over grouse moors, providing strong evidence of illegal killing
The RSPB estimates hundreds of birds of prey are illegally killed in the UK annually
Illegal persecution has prevented hen harrier populations from recovering despite favourable breeding habitat
Wildlife crime units in UK police forces are underfunded relative to the scale of raptor persecution

Welfare Considerations

Illegal raptor persecution causes direct welfare harm through shooting, poisoning, and nest destruction, as well as indirect population-level effects that compromise genetic diversity and resilience. The concentration of persecution around driven grouse moors creates a clear accountability framework. Stronger legal deterrents, mandatory licensing of grouse shooting, and better police resourcing for wildlife crime investigations are the most effective welfare and conservation interventions.

What You Can Do

Report suspected raptor persecution to the RSPB's confidential hotline
Support RSPB investigations and lobbying for stronger wildlife crime penalties
Advocate for grouse shooting to require a wildlife management licence
Donate to organisations monitoring satellite-tagged raptors to detect persecution
Avoid purchasing driven grouse during the shooting season as a consumer statement