Hen harriers are one of the most threatened species in the country due to human persecution. These birds have been shot, trapped and hunted down. Last year only seven young from three nests were successfully raised.

With two young satellite-tagged birds found shot in Cumbria and Northumberland in the last 9 months, this regional project wants to continue with protecting nests, satellite tagging young birds and ensuring that the Moorland Association and Defra aren’t given an easy ride on their plans for a brood management trial. The money raised will be used to fund nest cameras, payment for overnight protection staff and accommodation at youth hostels.

At the indoor meeting on March 14th, members of the group voted on which one of several projects they wished to make a group donation of £350. By a considerable margin, they voted to support the hen harrier project.