Wildlife

Wild Ringtail Hen Harrier Winter Welfare

Female and young hen harriers (ringtails) face winter welfare challenges from prey scarcity and illegal persecution in upland areas.

Key Facts

Ringtails are female and juvenile hen harriers, named for their ringed tail pattern
Hen harriers winter at lower altitudes than summer breeding grounds
Winter prey includes voles, pipits, and other small mammals and birds
Illegal poisoning and trapping continues on some grouse moors in winter
Winter roost sites require protection from disturbance for welfare and population monitoring

Welfare Considerations

Ringtail hen harriers face winter welfare challenges from prey scarcity and persecution. Illegal poisoning causes slow, painful death and is a welfare and criminal issue. Monitoring winter roosts provides data while protection schemes prevent disturbance. Supporting legal protection and enforcement is a direct welfare intervention.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB winter raptor monitoring and roost protection schemes
Report suspicious activities near known hen harrier winter areas
Advocate for stronger penalties for illegal raptor persecution