NGO statement on the death of a Hen Harrier, Asta

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The National Gamekeepers’ Organisation was both saddened and frustrated to learn about the death of a hen harrier named Asta, and the circumstances surrounding the bird’s death. The fact that the bird in question had a home range on or near grouse moors can, sadly, lead to the finger of blame being pointed at the game keeping sector.

The sequence of events as outlined in this blog from Natural England indicate that a crime has been committed, despite the fact that there is no ongoing criminal investigation.

This incident is hugely upsetting for us as it undermines the excellent work being carried out by gamekeepers and land managers across the uplands to increase hen harrier numbers. This includes helping and supporting Defra’s joint action plan for hen harrier recovery. Last month it was announced that 119 hen harrier chicks have fledged in England this year, with at least 75% of these nests on land managed as grouse moors. This is the largest number for a century, and the NGO are grateful to every person who has played their part in this achievement.

Membership of the National Gamekeepers’ Organisation is a badge of honour. As the lead body for gamekeeping, the NGO has a responsibility to protect the reputation of the gamekeeping sector. We have a zero-tolerance approach to all wildlife crime, and expect our members to adhere to the Code of Good Shooting Practice. This is regularly reinforced to our members. As such, any member found guilty of a crime such as this would have their membership revoked.