Wildlife

Montagu's Harrier Welfare on UK Arable Farmland

Conservation and welfare of the UK rarest breeding harrier nesting in arable crops.

Key Facts

Montagu's harriers are rare summer visitors with only 5-15 pairs breeding in the UK most years
They nest on the ground in arable crops — primarily cereals and oilseed rape
Nest protection during harvest is essential — without intervention chicks are killed by combine harvesters
Long-distance migrants from sub-Saharan Africa — facing pressures across the full range

Welfare Considerations

Montagu's harrier welfare at UK nest sites depends on voluntary farmer cooperation and RSPB nest monitoring. Each breeding pair is individually known and monitored — welfare harm to any individual is population-significant. Welfare-informed farming involves farmers delaying harvest around nest sites until chicks have fledged, guided by nest monitors. The cooperation between conservation organisations and farmers has been remarkable.

What You Can Do

Report any suspected Montagu's harrier sightings to the RSPB immediately
Support the Montagu's Harrier Conservation Project through donations
Never approach suspected nest sites in arable fields — any disturbance can cause abandonment