The hen harrier population in Northern Ireland has seen a worrying decrease of over 25% sparking serious concerns about the species’ future. The most recent assessment revealed just 34 mating pairs in the area, a fall of over a quarter since the 2016 survey. This research was in collaboration with various organisations including the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Northern Ireland (RSPBNI), Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group (NIRSG), the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and a number of volunteers. Their intention was to better comprehend the species’ population size and dispersion.
A 2011 government-commissioned independent review had previously estimated that there should be approximately 150 pairs of breeding hen harriers in Northern Ireland. However, according to the NIRSG, the population of hen harriers in the North are overwhelmed by a variety of land management practises and human-related hazards. They stated that these factors have led to substantial, continuous losses of suitable habitats and widespread disruptions in nesting and foraging areas.
Gregory Woulahan, operations director at RSPBNI, branded the decrease as a “severe downfall”. Woulahan noted a similar pattern of population decrease in the Republic of Ireland in 2022 and stressed the need for additional protections for hen harriers and their habitats. He suggested that initiatives be put in place to support the preservation of valuable and biodiverse heather and scrub habitats across highland regions.
Woulahan emphasised the need for large-scale restoration efforts for peatlands and habitats to support the species and their prey. He warned against the destructive effects of wildfires and improper land management, calling for stronger policies, support for landowners, and increased public awareness to minimise disruptive activities.
While some population growth was noted in other parts of the UK, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland have seen significant declines since the last surveys. Andrew Muir, Stormont’s Minster for Rural Affairs, confirmed that steps must be taken to halt the declining numbers of this emblematic bird. He called for a collaborative effort with landowners, farmers, NGO’s and all interested parties for the restoration, enhancement and proper management of breeding habitats.
Although the general outlook appears pessimistic, it is satisfying to note from the survey that the count of hen harriers inhabiting the two specially guarded zones, which accommodates roughly fifty percent of these birds, has remained fairly constant since the 2016 census.
The authorities are urging members of the public to report to the police, any sightings of deceased or injured raptors in potentially dubious conditions. Also, any confidential tip-offs regarding the deliberate killing of these birds of prey may be reported, while maintaining anonymity, to Crimestoppers. – PA