RSPB Launches Evocative New Animation to End the Illegal Killing of Hen Harriers
Highlighting a catalogue of crimes against Hen Harriers over the last five years, the RSPB is urging supporters and activists to email their MP calling for a licensing scheme for grouse shooting. An integral part of their campaign is a powerful new animated film, just two minutes long, calling for changes to the law to give Hen Harriers the crucial protection they desperately need. Many members of the public aren’t indifferent or uncaring about illegal persecution, they simply aren’t aware of it. This new short film is an ideal format for succinctly raising awareness. The transcript of the voiceover is shown below in full, with a few screenshots from the animation.
“The UK’s uplands are hiding a secret. They’re home to a rare bird of prey, the Hen Harrier. Known as the Skydancer, the male’s acrobatic displays in Spring help him to attract a mate. If he’s successful, this devoted pair will work together to raise their young.
But despite all their efforts, each day these birds are risking their lives to survive.”
“Although legally protected, Hen Harriers are being killed in the UK. Decades of evidence has shown that these crimes are significantly linked to land managed for grouse shooting, where some individuals see Hen Harriers as a threat to their grouse stock.
To monitor their movements, the RSPB fits satellite tags to a small number of young Hen Harriers every year, and keeps a watchful eye over them. Yet many of these young birds suspiciously vanish without a trace.”
Not all Hen Harriers are fitted with satellite tags, so the incidents detected are only the tip of the iceberg.
“In the last five years, 102 confirmed and suspected incidents of Hen Harrier persecution have been recorded in the UK, with most taking place in Northern England.
This serious wildlife crime is happening across our uplands today, and is having a devastating effect on the recovery of this rare species.”
“But, it doesn’t have to be like this. Hen Harriers could be thriving in our uplands. We can make that happen, but only with your help.
It’s time for the UK government to license game bird shooting in England and give Hen Harriers the protection they deserve. Email your MP today, and stop the illegal killing of these incredible birds.”
