Wildlife Welfare

Wild Hen Harrier Brood Management

Hen harrier brood management involves moving harrier chicks from grouse moors to satellite sites to reduce conflict between harriers and grouse shooting interests.

Key Facts

Brood management was agreed as a conservation measure within the Hen Harrier Action Plan
Moved chicks are reared in aviaries before release to reduce harrier impact on grouse populations
Critics argue the scheme legitimises management of a naturally occurring predator
The scheme aims to increase harrier numbers while reducing persecution motivation
Welfare of moved chicks requires careful management in the rearing aviary period

Welfare Considerations

Brood management welfare involves the welfare of moved chicks during captive rearing, the broader welfare of harrier populations whose recovery is constrained by conflict, and the underlying welfare harm from persecution that the scheme aims to reduce.

What You Can Do

Engage with the evidence and ethics debate around hen harrier brood management
Support RSPB's position on hen harrier conservation and recovery
Advocate for stronger enforcement against hen harrier persecution alongside any management measures