Five facts about hen harriers

The sight of a bird of prey soaring through the skies is one of the most incredible spectacles in nature. This is especially true for hen harriers, which are among our most graceful yet sadly most threatened species. Read on for five facts about one of the most iconic sights of the Scottish uplands.

Hen harriers are nicknamed skydancers due to their acrobatic courtship displays. When trying to attract a female, male birds will perform a series of steep, twisting dives that can be as mesmerising to us as they are to potential mates.

Dancing isn’t their only acrobatic talent. With both parents taking an active role in feeding their young, hen harriers have an incredible ability to throw food to each other in mid-flight. Look at those reflexes!

Bonus points if you can identify the bubbling sound in the background. Video credit: RSPB Images

Hen harriers in Orkney are polygynous which means that one male will often mate with several females. Studies have shown this seems to increase with age, with some males having as many as five partners!

Another nickname, female hen harriers are often referred to as ringtails. Unsurprisingly, this comes from the distinctive white band on their long tails.

Note the white barring at the base of the tail. Image credit: Andy Hay

Having narrowly avoided extinction once before, hen harriers are worryingly among our most persecuted birds of prey. According to a UK-wide survey, a country this size with our habitats could sustain up to 2,650 pairs. In reality, we only have about 20% of that.

If you're very lucky, you can see hen harriers on heather upland moors across the country, but for the best chance of spotting one you should head to Orkney or the Western Isles.

To learn more about hen harriers, visit our website.

Header image credit: Mark Thomas