Wildlife

Wild Hen Harrier Recovery 2026

Hen harrier recovery in England remains critically limited by persecution, with modest improvement in a few areas providing limited hope.

Key Facts

English hen harrier breeding pairs have increased marginally from under 10 to around 15 breeding pairs
Scotland maintains a larger but still persecuted population of around 500 breeding pairs
Brood management trial allowing translocation of eggs from harrier nests remains controversial
Satellite tag data continues to provide evidence of illegal persecution on grouse moors
Wildlife crime legislation reform is under consideration that could strengthen raptor protection

Welfare Considerations

Hen harriers killed through illegal persecution suffer traumatic death that removes individuals from a critically small population. The marginal increase in English breeding pairs does not represent sustainable recovery while persecution continues.

What You Can Do

Support organizations campaigning for grouse moor licensing with wildlife crime conditions
Donate to hen harrier monitoring programs that document persecution through satellite tracking
Advocate for stricter legislation and enforcement against raptor persecution