Wildlife

Hen Harrier Conservation: Conflict and Recovery

Overview of hen harrier welfare, grouse moor conflict, and conservation efforts.

Key Facts

Hen harrier is one of the UK's most persecuted birds of prey
Grouse moor management is implicated in continued illegal persecution
English breeding population remains critically low with fewer than 10 pairs some years
Brood management scheme remains controversial among conservationists
Scotland holds the largest UK breeding population

Welfare Considerations

Hen harrier welfare is severely compromised by illegal persecution on grouse moors. Despite strong legal protection, the English breeding population remains at crisis levels. Conservation requires effective law enforcement, land management reform, and resolution of the conflict between raptor conservation and driven grouse shooting. Progress requires political will and meaningful consequences for persecution.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB and Raptor Persecution UK campaigns for hen harrier protection
Advocate for licensing of driven grouse shooting
Report any evidence of raptor persecution to police and RSPB Investigations