Montagu's Harrier: The Polyamorous Bird Reviving a Rare Species in the UK

Washington DC, United States Aug 25, 2026 ALN: The Montagu's harrier, a distinctive and striking bird of prey, has made headlines in recent years due to its precarious status in the UK. As the rarest bird of prey in the country, its population has faced significant challenges, leading to its classification on the red list of birds most at risk in the UK since 2021. This classification reflects a troubling decline in numbers, with no breeding pairs recorded between 2020 and 2023. However, recent developments have sparked hope among conservationists and bird enthusiasts alike.

For the second consecutive year, Montagu's harriers have successfully bred in a secret location, thanks in large part to a remarkable male known as AU. This polyamorous harrier has become a pivotal figure in the revival of the species, demonstrating the potential for individual animals to significantly impact conservation efforts. Since 2018, AU has been responsible for the successful hatching of at least 16 chicks, showcasing his vital role in the ongoing recovery of the Montagu's harrier population in the UK.

AU's breeding success is particularly noteworthy this year, as he managed to breed six juveniles with two different females across two nests. This achievement follows a long period of stagnation in Montagu's harrier breeding, with the last successful nesting prior to AU's involvement occurring in 2015. The significance of AU's contributions cannot be overstated; he has effectively become a linchpin in the efforts to bring the Montagu's harrier back from the brink of extinction.

Mark Thomas from the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) expressed amazement at AU's journey, noting that when the bird was initially ringed as a chick in 2016, no one could have predicted his future impact on the species. The RSPB's efforts to monitor AU's offspring have reached new heights this year, with fieldworkers fitting one chick from each of the two nests with satellite tracking tags. This innovative step marks the first time juvenile Montagu's harriers have been tagged in the UK, providing invaluable data that will help conservationists understand their migration patterns and survival rates.

Each spring, Montagu's harriers embark on a migratory journey from Africa to Europe to breed. However, only a small number of these birds choose to return to the UK, making their breeding success even more critical. The challenges faced by the Montagu's harrier are multifaceted, including habitat loss, agricultural practices, and changes in land use, all of which have historically contributed to their decline. The RSPB has been actively working to address these challenges through collaborations with farmers and birdwatchers, fostering a supportive environment for the birds.

AU's courtship displays, known as "skydancing," are a remarkable sight to behold. These aerial performances, characterized by high-altitude dives, rhythmic ‘U’-shaped undulations, and intricate loops and twists, serve as both a mating ritual and a demonstration of fitness. The accompanying vocalizations further enhance the spectacle, making it a captivating event for those fortunate enough to witness it. The RSPB has noted that AU's ability to successfully manage two nests this year was aided by a good food supply, highlighting the importance of environmental conditions in the breeding success of this species.

Historically, the breeding population of Montagu's harriers in the UK peaked at around 30 pairs in the mid-1950s. However, this number plummeted to zero by 1974, marking a significant decline that raised alarm among conservationists. A slight recovery occurred in the late 2000s, with numbers reaching up to 13 pairs. Despite these gains, the overall trend has been troubling, necessitating urgent conservation efforts to stabilize and grow the population.

The recent breeding successes of the Montagu's harrier can be attributed to a concerted effort between various stakeholders, including conservation organizations, farmers, and birdwatchers. By keeping the birds' breeding locations confidential, the RSPB has been able to minimize disturbances that could jeopardize the nesting process. This strategy underscores the delicate balance between conservation efforts and the need to protect vulnerable species from human interference.

As the Montagu's harrier continues to navigate the challenges of survival in the UK, the story of AU serves as a beacon of hope. His unique approach to breeding, characterized by polyamory, highlights the adaptability of wildlife in the face of adversity. The implications of AU's success extend beyond the immediate revival of the Montagu's harrier population; they also provide valuable insights into the complexities of avian behavior and the potential for individual animals to drive conservation outcomes.

Looking ahead, ongoing monitoring and research will be essential to ensure the continued success of the Montagu's harrier in the UK. The tagging of chicks this year is a promising step towards understanding their life cycles and migration patterns, which will inform future conservation strategies. As conservationists celebrate the achievements of AU and the Montagu's harrier, the broader challenges of habitat preservation, sustainable agriculture, and environmental stewardship remain critical to ensuring the long-term survival of this remarkable species.