Now considered an “upland” bird in Britain, where they feed mainly on voles while also taking some small birds such as meadow pipits, they were once widespread across the country before populations were decimated by persecution. Hen harriers have rarely been bred in captivity because they are considered by falconers to be “untameable”. We are committed to driving down persecution to ensure permanent recovery of the species.” “Hen harriers are a magnificent bird of prey, which sadly face many challenges including persecution and habitat loss. Working together, we hope to create a sustainable population, which supports the long-term revival of this much-loved species. Simon Lee, a senior adviser at Natural England, the government’s conservation watchdog, said: “The southern reintroduction project is an excellent example of international collaboration to drive species recovery. Hen harrier pairs produce up to six chicks each year but they are timid and must be kept in special aviaries where they are not disturbed by noise or human activity. The birds will begin to breed next spring, although the new pairs may not produce enough chicks for release into the wild until 2024. Two additional birds are being brought in from Spain. Young hen harriers in France were rescued from the wild overseas by volunteers, who ensure that if a harrier nests in a wheat field, the chicks are saved before the combines move in.
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