Where to see Hen Harrier in Northumberland
A Guide to this beautiful raptor
Seeing Hen Harriers in Northumberland is one of the UK’s best raptor experiences, as the county is one of the few remaining "strongholds" for the species in England.The best place to see them depends heavily on the season. In winter, they move to lower ground and the coast to roost. In spring and summer, they return to the high moorlands to breed (where they are much harder to see and highly sensitive to disturbance).
Here are the best locations to spot them, categorized by season.
Male Hen harrier illustrationby MiE Fielding
1. Winter (Best Chance for Sightings)
October – March During winter, Hen Harriers often gather in "roosts" (sleeping communal areas) on lower ground. You are most likely to see "Ringtails" (females and young birds) hunting over reeds and marshes near the coast. * Widdrington Moor Lake: Hen harrier have been seen regularly at this site along with short-eared owl, barn owl, marsh harrier, common buzzard and occasional merlin. Recent reports specifically note "Ringtails" wintering here. Scan the open hillside to the north and the reedbeds. Take the minor road West from the roundabout at Widdrington (The Widdrington Inn) and follow the road to the first major bend at the west side of the lake, although anywhere which allows a view over rough ground can be good. There are usually photographers parked here in good light. Check the lake for wintering ducks, grebes and divers.
* East Chevington & Cresswell Pond: Look for them quartering (flying low) over the reedbeds, flushing up ducks and waders.
* Holy Island (Lindisfarne) & Fenham Flats: A vast expanse of saltmarsh and mudflats is a hunting ground for harriers in winter.
* Other sites include Alnwick moor, and Harwood Forest.
2. Summer (Breeding Season)
April – August
In summer, the birds move to the upland moors. Note: Breeding sites are strictly confidential to protect them from illegal persecution.
* Kielder Water & Forest Park (Bakethin Raptor Viewpoint): Although Kielder is not a particularly reliable site for Hen Harrier, it is a well known and productive site for both Osprey and Goshawk.
Hen Harriers are the most persecuted bird of prey in the UK.
* Never approach a roost or nest: If a bird flushes (flies up in alarm) because of you, you are too close.
* Stay on paths: especially on the moors in spring/summer to avoid stepping on ground nests.
* Keep sightings vague: If you post on social media during breeding season, do not give specific grid references (e.g., say "Northumberland Uplands" rather than a specific valley).
