Wildlife

UK Montagu's Harrier Nest Protection Welfare

Welfare benefits of active nest protection for Montagu's harriers in UK arable fields.

Key Facts

RSPB co-ordinates with farmers to protect harrier nests during harvest
Nest sites are marked with canes to prevent accidental destruction by machinery
Chicks may be temporarily removed and replaced after harvest at critical stage
Nest protection has saved chicks that would otherwise have been killed
Each pair represents a significant proportion of the tiny UK breeding population

Welfare Considerations

Active nest protection delivers direct welfare benefits to harrier chicks that would otherwise be killed by harvest machinery, making each protected chick a measurable welfare success.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB Montagu's harrier nest protection through donations
Report possible sightings immediately to enable nest protection
Advocate for harrier nest protection provisions in arable farming policy