The hen harrier is one of the iconic species of the world of birds and its history is a mix of controversy, persecution and recent patchy recovery. This book, a dedicated study of the bird in Northern Ireland for over two decades, provides a detailed account of the life, habits and prospects for the bird.
The author presents much new information about the harrier in its continuing struggle to re-establish its hold despite high levels of persecution from man or predation by other species. Having spent thousands of hours over many years studying these birds, he was rewarded by the discovery that this ground-nesting species was nesting in tall conifers in the forests of County Antrim - the only country throughout their vast European range where this occurs annually.
Don Scott is a member of the Society of Biology, a serving committee member of the N. Ireland branch and has had numerous articles and papers published. He is also the author of "Harriers: Journeys Around the World".
"Don Scott's new book is a well written and eminently readable account of his dedicated studies of this species in Northern Ireland. ... This book is an essential read for all those interested in the hen harrier and the conservation of birds of prey in general, and comes highly recommended."
- Peregrine