Guide Note

A hen harrier is a North American and Eurasian medium-sized hawk. It has a 46-inch wingspan, a long tail and white rump. Females are larger than males and have a brown back and a striped brown belly. Males have a gray back, a light-colored belly and black wingtips.¹

Fast Facts

1. Approximately 750 breeding pairs in the United Kingdom²
2. Females larger than males¹
3. Prey on small mammals and smaller birds¹
4. Population declined in 20th century after decrease in wetlands¹
5. Named after its ability to catch wild fowl²

During the 20th century, populations of the hen herrier declined due to the loss of many wetlands. The population is now slightly declining or stable in most regions of the world.¹

Prince Harry and a friend were questioned on Wednesday, October 31, 2007, after witnesses reported that two hen harriers were shot on the royal family's estate. Prince Harry and his friend were the only two shooting in the area at the time of the incident. Hen Harriers are an endangered species, legally protected in England.³