Efforts to safeguard a rare bird species in the United Kingdom have received a significant boost from the exceptional breeding success of a male bird, according to conservationist Mark Thomas.
Mark Thomas, the species lead for Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), highlighted the remarkable contribution of a male bird named AU, who has fathered 16 offspring, with 10 born in the last two years.
Describing AU as a standout performer, Thomas emphasized that the male bird has played a crucial role in preserving the Montagu’s harrier population in the UK.
Montagu’s harriers are migratory birds that breed in Europe after spending their winters in Africa and parts of Asia. The global population of these birds is declining, and they are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
In the UK, the Montagu’s harriers have faced a rapid decline, with fluctuations in breeding pairs over the years. The recent success in breeding and raising chicks is attributed to AU’s efforts.
‘A Promising Year’
The UK population of Montagu’s harriers reached a peak in the 1950s but faced a drastic decline, leading to zero breeding pairs in the 1970s. The species saw a resurgence in the mid-2000s with 13 breeding pairs before another decline. Thomas expressed optimism about the current breeding success, emphasizing the importance of preserving the existing bird population.
Thomas highlighted AU’s acrobatic mating displays, attracting three female birds this year, resulting in successful nesting with two of them. The offspring have brought hope for the species’ future, with the potential for AU’s sons to return to the UK for breeding.
Securing the Nests
AU’s six chicks, born from two nests, are being closely monitored by conservationists, with measures in place to protect them from threats. The strategic placement of the nests on a British farm, known only to scientists and landowners, aims to ensure the safety of the hatchlings.
Thomas emphasized the importance of safeguarding the chicks due to the species’ rarity and vulnerability to threats like habitat loss and agricultural activities.
Monitoring the Young Birds
The RSPB has equipped two juvenile Montagu’s harriers with satellite trackers for the first time, allowing researchers to track their migration patterns and potential return to the UK for breeding. This initiative aims to gather valuable data on the birds’ movements and contribute to future conservation efforts.
Thomas expressed excitement about the new tracking technology and its potential to enhance conservation strategies for Montagu’s harriers in the UK.
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