Hen Harrier Welfare on Driven Grouse Moors in Scotland

The hen harrier is one of the UK's most persecuted raptors, with illegal killing on driven grouse moors causing chronic population suppression and significant welfare harm to individuals.

Key Facts

The English hen harrier population has fewer than 10 breeding pairs despite suitable habitat for hundreds
Satellite-tagged harriers disappear at disproportionate rates over managed grouse moors
Persecution methods include shooting, trapping, and nest destruction
The species is fully protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
A brood management scheme has been trialled as a conflict resolution measure

Welfare Considerations

Hen harrier persecution causes violent and painful deaths to protected birds and destroys nests containing eggs and chicks. Individuals who survive persecution attempts but are injured face slow deaths from untreated wounds. The cumulative effect of persecution has compressed the English breeding population to functional extinction in its core habitat. Camera trap evidence and satellite tracking data have documented numerous cases of illegal killing, yet prosecutions remain rare. Ending illegal persecution is the single most impactful welfare intervention available for this species.

What You Can Do

Report suspected hen harrier persecution to the RSPB Wildlife Crime Unit and Police Scotland
Support campaigns for vicarious liability legislation that holds landowners accountable for persecution
Avoid purchasing driven grouse from moors with records of raptor persecution
Donate to satellite tagging projects that generate evidence of persecution incidents
Engage with your MP on hen harrier protection and driven grouse moor licensing