The ever-so elusive Hen Harrier

Hen Harriers are undoubtedly the most intensely persecuted of all UK birds of prey. Driven to extinction in mainland Britain in the 19th century, they have remained rare due to illegal persecution and disturbance, primarily in areas associated with grouse shooting. Just ten years ago, in 2013, no Hen Harriers nested in England, but there are now more Hen Harriers nesting in England than at any point since they were lost as a breeding species around 200 years ago. In 2023, a total of 54 nests were recorded (up from 49 last year) and 141 chicks fledged.

In the spring and summer months, hen harriers are primarily seen in the upland hills (for example in Scotland) looking for mates and nesting sites in heather moorland. In the winter however, hen harriers can be found in a variety of lowland habitats including farmland, grasslands and wetlands. Hen harriers visit Norfolk in small numbers during the late autumn and winter but do not breed in the County and have generally departed by mid-April. I have seen ‘ringtails’ at NWT Cley Marshes (Norfolk) and at Hen Reedbeds (Suffolk), though always elusive.

This is my 210th British bird species on iNaturalist.

Posted on 07 April, 2024 19:40 by heliastes21