Search is on to find the UK’s rarest nesting bird of prey

Fewer than a dozen pairs of Montagu’s harrier have been recorded by the charity which wants people to report any sightings which may help locate the birds’ nests so they can be protected.

The species is known to nest in lowland crops such as winter cereals, oilseed rape and grass silage. Their nests are often only discovered at harvest time.

Montagu’s harriers return to the UK in late April after spending the winter in Africa. They breed almost entirely in the east and south-west of England. Mark Thomas, who leads on Montagu’s harrier work for the RSPB, said: “Along with species like stone curlews and corncrakes, farmers have been essential in conserving our tiny population of Montagu’s harriers and through this hotline we hope to locate additional pairs that may otherwise have been missed.

“The UK population is currently teetering on the brink, and finding additional pairs will be a bonus. All reports will be treated in the strictest of confidence.

“We’re hopeful that farmers and birdwatchers who spot Montagu’s harriers will contacts us so we can confirm the sightings. We can offer free advice on how these sites can be protected to ensure these magnificent birds can successfully rear young.”

Larger than kestrels, Montagu’s harriers have slender builds, long wings and a long tail.

Males are pale grey with black wing tips and females are largely brown with a white rump.

To report a sighting, including the date, a six-digit grid reference where possible and a contact telephone number, call the RSPB hotline on 01767 693398 or email [email protected]