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The rare bird’s nest near Whernside had been monitored with a camera and contained four healthy chicks, being fed regularly by the parents.

Suddenly, on 15th June, the camera went white and the chicks were later found dead. Veterinary examination showed them to have multiple broken bones and other injuries, which could only have been caused deliberately by a person or persons. 

Jono Leadley, North Regional Manager “I am heart-broken by this disgraceful act. We are working hard to reconnect and restore habitats for wildlife at nearby Ingleborough, and we are always thrilled to see a hen harrier hunting over the mountainside. It is devastating to think that these beautiful birds are at such risk of being killed if they wander across to Whernside.”

Hen harriers should be a widespread breeding species in the uplands of North Yorkshire but numbers remain very low because of illegal activity.

Despite organisations including the police and RSPB investigations unit carrying out painstaking surveillance and protection operations, determined individuals are still killing raptors and prosecutions remain very difficult to uphold. 

Yorkshire Wildlife Trust commends the Yorkshire Dales National Park for making it a priority to stamp out illegal persecution of birds of prey in their management plan. 

Jono added; “Sadly, it seems positive action by the National Park to protect beloved raptors is not supported by a minority of individuals who seem committed to wiping out birds of prey and owls from our skies.

“These majestic birds can bring great joy to those watching them and our National Parks should be a safe haven for them.” 

North Yorkshire Police have made a plea to the public for information on this illegal act with a view to prosecuting the perpetrators. 

If anyone has any information that could help the police, please contact North Yorkshire Police or speak to your local wildlife liaison officer.