Brood Management of Hen Harriers Update
The Hawk and Owl Trust (HAOT) has long worked with landowners to develop balanced conservation strategies. In late 2014, HAOT formed a scientific advisory committee with three leading academics (Professors Ian Newton, Steve Redpath, and Des Thompson) to guide them on the Hen Harrier’s situation in upland England.
Prof Steve Redpath, a committee member, stressed the importance of evidence-based solutions:
“Finding solutions that work for all sides depends on solid evidence. Relying only on enforcement risks worsening the conflict and possibly further reducing harrier numbers. This would harm both the Hen Harrier and those who enjoy seeing these birds. Surely it’s better to build a plan based on evidence and dialogue rather than trying to force one view?”
Following this advice, HAOT backed DEFRA’s 2016 Hen Harrier Action Plan and Trial. A key part was the Brood Management Trial, which involved taking eggs or chicks from some Hen Harrier nests on grouse moors, raising them in captivity, and then releasing them back into northern England’s uplands.
The Trust’s support came with conditions, including safe satellite tagging of all released birds and a promise to end support if any illegal harm occurred.
Project Outcomes
The 2023 Hen Harrier survey shows mixed results. In 2023, a total of 54 nests were recorded (up from 49 in 2022) of which 36 were successful (34 in 2022). A total of 141 Hen Harrier chicks fledged (119 in 2022). This is a huge increase from just four pairs in 2016. Yet, Hen Harriers are still missing from large areas.
It is widely acknowledged that the illegal killing of Hen Harriers must come to an end. An alternative strategy has been implemented and is showing signs of success, as evidenced by the increasing population numbers. However, the rate of mortality and the disappearance of these birds within their first year remains high.
The Hawk and Owl Trust’s Involvement
As the current licence period ends, the HAOT board has reviewed the charity’s involvement. The Trust knew its participation was a calculated risk but believed its voice could make an impact. While some members had reservations, the Trust felt this project was more important than these concerns.
The Trust earlier this year has reassessed its role based on the project’s outcomes and the latest scientific evidence available. It remains committed to finding practical solutions that balance wildlife protection with human needs, always guided by the best available data and expert advice.
The board recognised that Hen Harrier Brood Management has been controversial, drawing criticism from nature lovers and gamekeepers alike.
HAOT hasn’t directly carried out the initiative but has played a supportive role, offering insights and backing evidence-based solutions to balance wildlife conservation with human interests.
The charity acknowledges the programme’s successes, including more Hen Harrier nests and breeding pairs in England. However, the project has faced challenges and legal issues. Both environmentalists and estate managers have raised concerns, highlighting the project’s sensitive nature.
Despite population growth, Hen Harrier numbers remain low, with illegal culling still a problem. Budget constraints limited the research team’s ability to fully assess the Action Plan’s impact on bird populations, underscoring the need for proper funding in wildlife research and also areas which are no longer managed.
Illegal harm to Hen Harriers and weak law enforcement remain serious issues requiring a multi-faceted approach.
The Trust decided in March 2024 to withdraw from the project at the end of the current licence period and focus on other conservation efforts.
The Trust recognises the ongoing need for collaboration, transparency, and monitoring to ensure the Hen Harrier’s survival. Future success depends on licences, funding, and cooperation between conservationists, land managers, and stakeholders, building on the foundation laid by the initiative.