The RSPB is appealing to members of the RA for any sightings from Derbyshire of one of England’s rarest birds of prey, the hen harrier.

The appeal for sightings of harriers is in a bid to find out more about the distribution of these beautiful birds. The RSPB has launched a ‘Harrier Hotline’ for people to phone in any sightings, along with details of the date and location of sighting, including a grid reference where possible. The number is 0845 4600121 (calls charged at local rate). Reports can also be e-mailed to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Hen harriers are one of the least familiar but most spectacular of the UK’s birds of prey. The male bird performs a magnificent aerobatic display or ‘sky dance’ in spring and provides food to his mate in spectacular food passes.

Dr Peter Robertson, RSPB Northern England conservation manager, said: “By reporting sightings to us, members of the Ramblers Association who are lucky enough to spot one of these beautiful birds of prey will be contributing vital information that will help us to protect these rare birds.”

Although they are fully protected by UK law, the illegal persecution of hen harriers by scaring, destroying nests and eggs or deliberate killing is the main cause of their near-extinction in England. It is estimated that there could be as many as 230 pairs of hen harriers in England, but in 2007, there were just 23 known nesting attempts, of which only 15 were successful.

Dr Robertson added: “It is only with the concerted effort of the RSPB and Natural England, combined with the dedication of volunteers and the vigilance of the general public, that we can hope to secure a future for hen harrier in England.”

So keep your eyes peeled for these rare birds, especially in spring.

The RSPB is calling for the illegal killing of all birds of prey to stop. To find out more about what to do if you witness a crime against wildlife and how you can help birds of prey, visit www.rspb.org.uk/birdsofprey.

KNOW YOUR HARRIERS

Harriers are smaller than a buzzard and larger than a crow. They have long wings and long tails. They are often seen hunting low over the ground with wings raised in a shallow V when gliding. Male and female harriers have strikingly different plumage. The male has silver-grey upperparts, white underparts and black wing-tips. The female is larger and is dark brown with buff markings on wings and a long grey-brown tail with a white band at the base. They are usually silent except when at the nest.