AFTER all the efforts made to help hen harriers in The Forest of Bowland, it is hugely disappointing that just one nest site now remains this summer.

Lancashire Police and the RSPB are appealing for any information about the disappearance of a fourth breeding male from the area.

The last confirmed sighting of the bird of prey was on Friday, May 29, when it was observed passing food to the female.

RSPB staff continued to see the female in the vicinity of the nest but not the male bringing food.

When they visited the nest it had been abandoned and that the eggs were cold.

It comes after three breeding males also failed to return to their nests earlier in the season under mysterious circumstances.

The news is a massive blow to the charity which has been working with United Utilities on its estates for more than 35 years to protect the birds.

They have also been supported by other landowners and farmers. The well-regarded sky dancer project has also been introduced to explain the conservation efforts being put in to help save the bird, which it is feared could become extinct in England.

Anyone with information needs to contact the authorities immediately.