The Hen Harrier - one of the most graceful, impressive birds in the British Isles - and one of the most persecuted.

Numbers have been reduced to worrying levels in England, and don't fare much better in Scotland. Persecution has been at the hands of gamekeepers protecting their masters game birds - mainly grouse - on the moors of Northern England.

As someone who has nothing against shooting, in fact I enjoy it myself (can't beat shooting woodies at the edge of a wood on a windy day!) I understand that the dwindling numbers of grouse need to be protected - but there must be a better way. I also enjoy seeing birds of prey in their natural habitat, doing what they do naturally; hunting. So I'd like to make a suggestion for a win-win scenario.

To keep the Harriers from taking the valuable grouse, why not set out a few large open-topped pens containing other birds that would be both easier to catch than the grouse, but also offer a larger meal for the Harriers; chickens! For every one of these chickens that get taken, a grouse (or two) lives. Not just that, but the Harrier / chicken action would provide a specticle for those interested in the bird.

If any keepers get to read this and can think of any downsides, please let me know using the comments box below.