Back-from-brink birds take flight

A glorious summer graced with ghostly wings over golden fields and mousy squeaks has rekindled an age-old debate.

- with STUART WINTER

Pondering Britain's rarest breeding bird is a puzzler to dominate conversations when things go quiet in the countryside.

The sultry temperatures and pristine skies of recent months sees two contenders vying for the honour, with successes highlighting how climate change is impacting birds.

News of the dramatic return of the Montagu's harrier from the brink - nesting for the first time on our shores since 2019 - is a tribute to positive farming attitudes and the resolute work of the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.