Victims of Persecution

Golden eagle

430 breeding pairs in Scotland, but persecution in the Borders and east Scotland restricts recovery and may, say the RSPB, "even cause the entire population to go into long-term decline".

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/g/goldeneagle/index.asp

Hen harrier

Britain's most persecuted bird. Barely two dozen pairs in the England, with perhaps 500 pairs in Scotland.

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/h/henharrier/index.asp

Peregrine

Now recovering strongly in lowland areas from its steep decline in the 1950s and 1960s. Sometimes persecuted, by pigeon fanciers. Breeding population of 1,285 pairs.

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/p/peregrine/index.asp

Red kite

Just a few decades ago was down to just a few dozen pairs in mid-Wales, but re-introductions has been successful – xcept in grouse moor areas. Now 430 pairs in UK.

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/r/redkite/index.asp

Goshawk

Large bird of woodland and forest. Only 400-450 pairs in UK, and often persecuted, especially by egg collectors.

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/g/goshawk/index.asp

Buzzard

Now Britain's most common bird of prey with 45,000-61,000 pairs. Known for its circling on thermals and mewing, cat-like cry.

For full details of this bird, plus call and video, see the RSPB guide: www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/birdguide/name/b/buzzard/index.asp