Wildlife

Wild Animal Welfare and Hen Harrier Brood Management

Hen harrier brood management schemes allow persecution-prone harriers to breed in upland habitats, with welfare considerations for both birds and voles.

Key Facts

Hen harrier populations have been suppressed on grouse moors through illegal persecution
Brood management schemes relocate chicks to foster parents to reduce grouse moor conflict
The welfare of relocated chicks requires careful handling and appropriate foster pairs
Voles and other prey must be provided to ensure relocated chick welfare during development
Brood management remains controversial - persecution reduction is the preferred long-term solution

Welfare Considerations

Brood management reduces persecution-related welfare harm for hen harriers while longer-term solutions are pursued. Each chick successfully raised to adulthood represents welfare success.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB hen harrier conservation programs
Report hen harrier persecution to the police and RSPB
Advocate for stronger raptor persecution enforcement in your region