Bird Profiles - Hen Harrier
UK Status
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Red listed -
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Breeding population: Approx 600prs – stable
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Breeds in upland Scotland, Wales & Ireland
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Winters in South & Eastern coastal regions
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Nesting & Breeding
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Ground nester on Heather moors & young conifer plantations
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Clutch size between 4–6 eggs
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Food
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Small mammals & ground nesting birds
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Hen Harrier Facts
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Wingspan 100 – 120cm
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Striking plumage difference between sexes
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Distinctive white rump
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Flies with wings held in shallow ‘V’
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Seasonal winter roosts
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Can travel many miles per day in search of food
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Superb hearing, aided by facial disc
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Nesting in trees in Northern Ireland
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Courtship behaviour includes sky-
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