Moorland Association's stance on raptors.

What is the truth on raptor numbers?
14 out of the 15 species of raptors found in Britain are now stable or increasing and are at their highest levels since proper records began. Of these, nine species regularly hunt on grouse moors in England: Merlin, Kestrel, Common Buzzard, Goshawk, Sparrowhawk, Hen Harrier, Red Kite, Peregrine Falcon and Hobby.

Are raptors a problem for grouse moor owners?
Whilst these species form an important part of the assemblage of birds that benefit from grouse moor management, as a combined group they kill a significant proportion of important wild ground nesting birds including waders, Black Grouse and Red Grouse. Unlike other raptors, Hen Harrier tolerate other pairs of breeding Hen harrier in close proximity, putting additional strain on the population of prey species.

In what way do raptors damage grouse shooting?
The amount of prey taken in Spring increases sharply as raptors feed their chicks, but grouse shooting can only take place when a surplus of grouse survives in to Autumn. The Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust calculate that one pair of breeding Hen Harriers will kill 300 grouse chicks and unmanaged Hen Harriers increased ten-fold over a period of just five years (1992-1997) during the Joint Raptor Study at Langholm ending shooting.

What does that matter for the upland society and economy?
Many people and businesses, such as accommodation providers, caterers and retailers, as well as casual seasonal labour, now rely on the grouse shooting industry as the primary source of sustainable income in the remote and often deprived communities of upland England. Locally, limited or no shooting has deeply felt economic consequences to the tune of at least £12.5 million.

What does that matter for the environment and wildlife?
With no or limited shooting, the incentive to invest heavily in the management of the moor by private individuals will also be lost. RSPB research shows that on moorland managed for grouse, nationally declining wading birds are up to five times more abundant than on other moorland. Without shooting, gamekeepers would no longer be employed to carry out the work to the detriment of the unique assemblage of wildlife and the rare heather habitat. 75% of the world's remaining heather is found in Britain and beneath its protective blanket lies the greatest carbon store in the country.

What does the Moorland Association think of people who take the law into their own hands?
Raptors are currently totally protected by law and The Moorland Association firmly condemns any illegal activity and will not support any member that is found to have taken the law into their own hands.

Does the Moorland Association want the law changed?
The Moorland Association plays a full part in the Government-led Environment Council process which seeks to increase the breeding population and range of Hen Harrier in England whilst safeguarding economically viable driven grouse shooting. Any positive management solutions coming from this process will require a change to the law to be workable on the ground and this is welcomed by the Moorland Association.