Wildlife Conservation

Wild Hen Harrier Brood Management Programme

The hen harrier brood management trial was introduced to reduce conflict between harrier conservation and grouse moor management. Its effectiveness remains debated but population outcomes are monitored carefully.

Key Facts

Hen harrier populations in England are severely depressed by illegal persecution on grouse moors
The brood management scheme temporarily removes chicks to reduce conflict with grouse hunting
Critics argue the scheme accommodates persecution rather than preventing it through enforcement
Hen harrier populations in England number fewer than 100 breeding females
Wild Justice and RSPB have challenged the scheme while supporting increased enforcement against persecution

Welfare Considerations

Hen harrier welfare is threatened by illegal persecution causing deaths through shooting and poisoning. The welfare of individual harriers removed for brood management must be considered alongside the population-level conservation calculus.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB and Wild Justice campaigns for stronger hen harrier persecution enforcement
Report any suspected raptor persecution to Police Wildlife Crime Officers
Advocate for grouse moor management reform that eliminates illegal raptor persecution