The Fascinating Life Of An English Hen Harrier: Untold Secrets Revealed!

Have you ever wondered what it's like to be a Hen Harrier in the English moorlands? Join us on a mesmerizing journey as we uncover the captivating life of this magnificent bird of prey like never before! From their awe-inspiring hunting techniques to their unique mating rituals, the English Hen Harrier's life is filled with wonder and intrigue.

A Majestic Predator Ruling the Skies

The English Hen Harrier, scientifically known as Circus cyaneus, is a true embodiment of nature's grace and power. As one of the few birds of prey that prefer open habitats such as moorlands and grasslands, the Hen Harrier showcases unrivaled hunting abilities as it gracefully glides through the sky.

Equipped with keen eyesight and exceptional maneuverability, the Hen Harrier primarily feeds on small mammals and birds. Its long wings and aerodynamic body allow it to fly low over the ground, making it a master at stalking its unsuspecting prey.

Bowland Beth: The Life of an English Hen Harrier

by David Cobham(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26021 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

An Unforgettable Courtship Dance

When it comes to finding a mate, the Hen Harrier engages in a captivating courtship ritual that is nothing short of a mesmerizing dance in the sky. The male Hen Harriers impress their potential partners with breathtaking aerial displays, soaring high and performing acrobatic feats to demonstrate their athleticism and prowess. This intricate courtship dance is a testament to both their strength and elegance.

Once the pair forms a bond, the female Hen Harrier constructs a nest on the ground, skillfully camouflaging it among the vegetation. The nest serves as a safe haven for their young, providing protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.

Persecution Threatening Their Existence

Despite their iconic status and remarkable characteristics, English Hen Harriers face numerous challenges that are pushing them towards the brink of extinction. Illegal persecution, mainly associated with grouse shooting estates, remains a significant threat to their population.

These estates view the Hen Harriers as a threat to the red grouse, which is a prized game bird. Hen Harriers often predate on young grouse, leading to conflicts between conservationists and gamekeepers.

The Battle for Survival

Conservationists are working tirelessly to protect and conserve the Hen Harrier population in England. Organizations such as the RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and the Hen Harrier LIFE Project are actively involved in monitoring and safeguarding their nests. By raising awareness, implementing legal measures, and providing suitable habitats, they hope to reverse the decline of these majestic birds.

Public support and engagement are crucial in securing the future of Hen Harriers. By understanding their unique biology and the challenges they face, we can collectively strive to protect and appreciate these incredible species, ensuring they continue to soar across the English skies for generations to come.

Embark on the Hen Harriers' Journey

Now that you have delved into the enthralling life of the English Hen Harrier, you can truly appreciate their strength, beauty, and resilience. Remember, the fate of these magnificent birds lies in our hands, and it is up to us to raise our voices, support conservation efforts, and celebrate the undeniable wonder of the Hen Harrier.

Bowland Beth: The Life of an English Hen Harrier

by David Cobham(Kindle Edition)

4.9 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	26021 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	152 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

‘An outstanding book’ Spectator

The story of the short life and tragic death of Bowland Beth – an English Hen Harrier – which dramatically highlights the major issues in UK conservation.

‘The sun was blood red as it broke the horizon and lit the communal roost where the female hen harrier had spent the night. She watched the other harriers as they left to go foraging for food out on the moor. She didn’t join them, for she had felt a quickening in her body, an urge to move to Mallowdale Pike, a rocky crag from where she had fledged nine months ago. After preening, she lifted off from the roost and soared up over the fell.’

David Cobham enters Beth’s world to show what being a hen harrier today is like. He immerses himself not only in the day-to-day regimen of her life, the hours of hunting, bathing, keeping her plumage in order and roosting, but also the fear of living in an environment run to provide packs of driven grouse for a few wealthy sportsmen to shoot.

The hen harrier is seen as a totemic species in the battle between the conservationists and ruralists, and as one of the key players in this emotive debate, David Cobham is uniquely placed to reflect on Beth’s story. In this powerful narrative, he provides us with a profound tale which helps to illuminate the larger implications of the species’ decline, highlighting the urgent need for conservation efforts to reverse this.