Wildlife

Wild Hen Harrier Grouse Moor Conflict

Hen harriers are illegally persecuted on grouse moors where they prey on young grouse, representing one of the UK's most serious wildlife crime and welfare issues.

Key Facts

Hen harriers are the UK's most persecuted bird of prey and critically rare in England
Satellite-tagged harriers disappear at statistically anomalous rates over grouse moors
Brood management trials allow some harrier chicks to be taken from wild nests for rearing
Driven grouse shooting is estimated to contribute significantly to harrier persecution
The UK government has prosecuted landowners for harrier persecution on very few occasions

Welfare Considerations

Hen harrier persecution causes painful deaths and has driven the species to the edge of extinction in England. This is both a welfare emergency and a serious criminal matter.

What You Can Do

Report suspected hen harrier persecution to the relevant wildlife crime authorities
Support organisations campaigning for stronger protection of hen harriers
Advocate for driven grouse shooting reform to eliminate harrier persecution incentives
Raise awareness of hen harrier persecution as wildlife crime deserving serious prosecution