Wildlife

Wild Hen Harrier Breeding and Persecution

Hen harriers remain one of the UK's most persecuted raptors, with driven grouse moor management the primary cause of illegal killing.

Key Facts

Hen harriers are legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act
England hosts far fewer breeding pairs than available habitat can support
Satellite tagging has revealed suspicious disappearances over managed moorland
Brood management trials seek to reduce harrier-grouse moor conflict
One pair of hen harriers requires approximately 100 km2 of upland moorland

Welfare Considerations

Illegally killed hen harriers die from shooting, trapping, or poisoning - all causing pain and distress. The systematic suppression of this species through persecution represents both a welfare and conservation crisis. Effective legal enforcement and prosecution are essential welfare responses.

What You Can Do

Support Raptor Persecution UK and other monitoring organisations
Report any suspected illegal raptor persecution to the police
Advocate for stronger penalties for wildlife crime