Keeping tags on hen harriers

THE RSPB has fitted more hen harrier chicks with satellite tags this year than ever before, more than doubling the number it tagged in 2016.

The movements of these threatened birds of prey will be monitored over the widest geographical area yet.

The increase in the number of tags deployed was made possible by Lush, the cosmetics company, which raised funds through the sales of a specially created “Skydancer” bath bomb.

This will allow the charity to build up a clearer picture of where the birds go and where they are most at risk from wildlife crime linked to intensive grouse moor management.

The RSPB hopes satellite tagging will eventually help pave the way for better protection for hen harriers.

From next month, it will be possible to follow the travels of a selection of the birds at rspb.org.uk/henharrierlife.