The first hen harrier chick hatched at a Deeside estate in living memory has been christened Harriet.
More than 400 people took part in a poll to choose a name for the young bird at the Nation al Trust for Scotland’s Mar Lodge Estate.
The hen harrier is a “red” listed species, meaning it is globally threatened and has suffered historical population decline in the UK.
The birds of prey were persecuted to the point of extinction in Upper Deeside during the Victorian era, and are now more common in the Highlands.
Everyone who helped pick Harriet’s name will be able to follow her progress as she learns to fly thanks to a satellite tag attached to her by the RSPB.
At the end of summer, key data about Harriet will be posted on the charity’s website as part of the Hen Harrier Life Project.
David Frew, who manages property on the estate at Braemar, said the interest in Harriet’s arrival was pleasing.
He said: “More than 400 people took part in the online poll.
“I think the reason so many took part is because it’s a rare bird and it’s good news.
“People like to be involved in good news and they will be able to trace the bird through its satellite tag.”
He added: “We think we’ve been able to breed the birds for the first time in living memory because of improved habitation and because they are free from persecution.
“Mar Lodge Estate is so rich in natural heritage and is home to lots of bird species, so it is fantastic to see hen harriers making a comeback.
“We hope that this year’s successful nest will be the start of a new era of recovery for the hen harrier in this area.
“We’ll be watching Harriet’s progress with lots of interest over the coming years.”
