Wildlife

Hen Harrier Welfare: Brood Management Scheme in England

The hen harrier is one of England's most persecuted raptors and a brood management scheme aims to reduce grouse moor conflict while improving population welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

England's hen harrier breeding population numbers fewer than 10 pairs in recent years despite suitable habitat for hundreds
The brood management scheme removes some harrier chicks from grouse moors to licenced facilities for rearing and release
Illegal persecution on grouse moors is the primary reason for the species' near-extinction as an English breeding bird
Scotland holds the majority of the UK hen harrier population of around 600 pairs

Welfare Considerations

Illegal persecution through trapping and shooting causes direct welfare suffering and has driven England's breeding population to near extinction. The brood management scheme removes chicks to reduce perceived grouse moor conflict, but critics argue it accommodates illegal persecution rather than addressing it. Welfare of individual birds removed from nests for rearing and release requires careful management.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected illegal persecution of hen harriers to the RSPB and police
Support Hen Harrier Day events raising awareness of persecution on grouse moors
Advocate for stronger sentencing for wildlife crime including raptor persecution
Donate to RSPB and other organisations working on hen harrier monitoring and protection