Wildlife

Wild Montagu's Harrier Farmland Welfare

Montagu's harriers are extremely rare UK breeders in farmland crops, requiring active nest protection from agricultural operations.

Key Facts

Fewer than 10 pairs of Montagu's harriers breed in the UK annually, all in lowland farmland
They nest directly on the ground in cereal crops, vulnerable to combine harvesters
RSPB nest protection schemes identify and protect nests from cultivation and harvest
Farmers working with RSPB receive guidance to avoid nest destruction
Montagu's harriers are summer visitors arriving from Africa in April-May

Welfare Considerations

With fewer than 10 UK breeding pairs, every Montagu's harrier individual's welfare is a conservation emergency. Nest destruction by combine harvesters kills eggs and chicks directly. RSPB nest protection - marking nests and working with farmers to avoid them - directly prevents welfare and conservation losses.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB Montagu's harrier nest protection fund
Report possible Montagu's harrier sightings to RSPB Investigations
Advocate for farming support payments that reward harrier nest protection