Hen Harrier Boom! England Sees Record 141 Chicks Fledge in 2023
Stunning Comeback for England’s Majestic Hen Harriers
England is buzzing with news of a hen harrier explosion! A whopping 141 hen harrier chicks fledged in 2023, smashing last year’s record of 119. This marks the seventh year running of growth, with hen harriers now more numerous in England than in the last 200 years.
These rare birds of prey, famous for their elegant one-meter wingspans and breathtaking sky dancing courtship displays, have become symbols of hope for conservationists battling decades of decline.
Illegal Persecution Still Casts a Shadow
Once wiped out from mainland Britain in the 1800s due to ruthless illegal hunting, hen harriers began returning in the 1960s. Yet, their recovery isn’t without drama. Tony Juniper, Chair of Natural England, praises the progress but warns:
“Today’s news is, however, overshadowed by continuing illegal persecution… much more needs to be done to protect these precious birds.”
Despite many landowners’ good intentions, hen harriers still face deadly threats, making protection efforts critical.
Hotspots and Heroes: Where Are the Chicks Fledging?
- 54 nests found in 2023, up from 49 in 2022.
- 36 nests were successful, with an average of 3.9 chicks each.
- Northumberland led the charge with 17 nests, nearly doubling last year’s 9.
- The Yorkshire Dales and Nidderdale also remained strongholds with 15 nests.
Science and Strategy: Fighting Back with Brood Management
A key strategy in this comeback is brood management: 24 chicks were taken from grouse moors, reared safely in captivity, and then released to avoid conflict with game shooting. Natural England is running scientific studies to refine this tactic and boost the population safely.
Natural England is also working hand-in-hand with police and the National Wildlife Crime Unit to crack down on illegal killings. Their Hen Harrier Action Plan includes reintroduction efforts, diversionary feeding, and next-level satellite tracking to keep tabs on these winged warriors.
With nature daring to bounce back against all odds, England’s iconic hen harriers are finally taking flight again – but the battle to protect them is far from over.
