Efforts by conservationists to prevent the extinction of a rare bird species in the United Kingdom have seen a significant boost, largely credited to the remarkable breeding success of a single male bird, according to conservationist Mark Thomas.
The male bird, known as AU, symbolizing gold, has fathered 16 offspring, with 10 born in the last two years, establishing him as a key contributor to the survival of the Montagu’s harrier species in the U.K.
Describing AU as excelling in his role, Thomas, the species lead for the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB), emphasized how AU is crucial in upholding the species’ presence in the U.K.
‘It’s been a successful year’
Montagu’s harriers are migratory birds that breed in Europe after spending their winters in Africa and parts of Asia. Despite their global population decline, they are classified as a species of least concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Red List.
In the U.K., the RSPB reports a rapid decline in the already scarce Montagu’s harriers, which faced extinction in the country. From a peak of 30 breeding pairs in the 1950s to zero in the ’70s, there was a slight resurgence to 13 pairs in the mid-2000s before another decline to zero between 2000 and 2003.
“Preservation efforts for the current bird population are crucial, and this year has been particularly successful,” said Thomas.
This success is attributed to AU, who managed to raise four chicks in 2025 and returned this year to engage in mating displays, attracting three females.
Thomas recounted AU’s aerial displays to captivate females, leading to a fierce competition among three females vying for his attention, resulting in two females nesting with him.
Securing the nests
Between his two mates, AU fathered six chicks, comprising four females and two males. Conservationists are optimistic that his male offspring will return to breed in the U.K. Two male offspring from 2025 have already been sighted in the country, awaiting maturity for breeding.
“These sightings bode well for the continuous growth of the population,” remarked Thomas.
The six new hatchlings are split between two nests, located approximately one kilometer apart on a confidential British farm, known only to scientists and landowners. Protective barriers have been set up around the nests to shield the chicks from predators and other dangers.
“Working with one of the most intriguing bird species in the U.K. is a privilege and a responsibility,” Thomas expressed.
“It’s a daily dream to be involved in their conservation efforts and to care for the chicks of a bird with only two nests in the entire United Kingdom.”
