BIRDWATCHERS and walkers and farmers across Wiltshire are being asked to keep a look out for Montagu’s harriers, the UK’s rarest breeding bird of prey, as they begin this year’s breeding season, so the RSPB can swing into action to protect their nesting sites from harm.

Montagu’s harriers are striking birds – they are larger than a kestrel with long wings and a long tail giving them a slender appearance. The males are plain grey, with black wingtips and a white underside. The females are mottled brown with a white rump.

They breed on farmland, particularly winter cereals, oilseed rape and field silage, making Wiltshire's fields a perfect home.

Data from tracked birds have shown that they spend the winter in Senegal, West Africa, and arrive in the UK around May to nest, before returning to Africa in August. In 2014, an adult male Montagu’s harrier, named Mark, was tagged in South West England allowing the RSPB to follow the migration route these birds of prey take for the first time.

The core population of Montagu’s harrier usually returns to the same nesting areas each year. The RSPB has been working successfully with these landowners for more than 30 years, but now it is hoping to find new or unknown nests.

Mark Thomas, who leads on Montagu’s harrier conservation work for the RSPB, said:

“Farmers and birdwatchers can really help with the conservation of this threatened species. Now is the best time to witness the adults’ airborne courtship before they establish their crop nests and become difficult to spot. If you are fortunate enough to see these breathtaking birds then please contact the hotline to let us know.”

In 2016, five pairs of Montagu’s harrier are known to have nested in this country, some in the South West. The charity says it is essential that the small number of breeding attempts made this year are identified and protected from accidental damage, disturbance or persecution to give these magnificent birds the best possible chance.

Any possible sightings of Montagu’s harrier can be reported to the hotline on 01767 393690 or emailed to montys@rspb.org.uk Details should include the date, six digit grid reference if possible and a contact telephone number. All reports to the hotline will be treated in the strictest confidence.