In our series of blogs for 2024, we’re going back to basics. This is a guide for budding ecologists who are keen to get started in the industry, or anyone interested in learning a little more about professional ecology practices in the UK.
Here, we're looking at our diverse community of British birds.
About Birds
According to the BTO, there are 628 species of wild birds in Britain, as of June 2022. This includes a mix of resident species, staying with us year-round, and migratory species. Winter migrants like redwings and fieldfares come from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe to escape harsh winters. Summer migrants, such as swallows and swifts, travel from Africa to breed in the UK, benefiting from the longer days and abundant food during the summer months. Other species simply using our island as a stopping point on their way to other destinations.
Ornithology has always been popular past-time among wildlife enthusiasts, due its accessibility and the diverse array of species and habitats we have in the UK.
Bird Conservation
The Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981 makes it illegal to injure, kill, or disturb any species of wild bird, their nests, or their eggs. However, there are specific exceptions for certain species or seasons, such as for game birds, pests, and invasive species, which can be controlled under regulated conditions.
In addition to this blanket, certain species have been highlighted by researchers due to their decline in population or range, rarity or international significance. Birds of Conservation Concern was first published in 1996 and the most recent review was in December 2021.
- Their Red List now has 70 species of high-risk including Greenfinch, Starling, Swift, House Sparrow and Skylark.
- There are 103 species on the Amber List, which include Tawny Owl, Avocet, Wren and Sparrowhawk.
- There are also 9 species on the Black List of birds than no-longer breed in the UK, which includes Great Bustard, Wryneck and Golden Oriole.
Among the threats experienced by all of our UK wildlife, such as loss of breeding or feeding habitat, and climate change, birds also face several unique threats.
- Birds of prey, in particular, suffer from illegal persecution. Gamekeepers have used pesticides and poisoned bait, believing Hen Harriers, Red Kites and White-tailed Eagles to be a threat to their livestock or game.
- Made famous by Rachel Carson's book Silent Spring (1962), many species suffered dramatic declines in the mid-century due to bioaccumulation of the insecticide DDT, which is now banned worldwide.
- Egg collecting was a common past time in the 1800s and up to the enforcement of the Protection of Birds Act in 1954. Rare and highly-valued species are still illegally targeted by egg collectors.
- Migratory species face additional risks during their long journeys, including habitat loss and threats along migratory routes and climate change impacts on weather patterns and seasonal timing (phenology).
by Dennis Jacobsen via shutterstock
Survey Methods
Conducting bird surveys requires a range of tools and techniques to accurately identify species presence using both sight and sound. Ornithologists need to survey throughout the year and both day and night for a full picture of the bird biodiversity and identify any species of significance using the site for breeding, during migration, or over winter. Here are some of the key methods used:
AM/PM Transects
Surveys are conducted in the morning (AM) and evening (PM) to take advantage of peak bird activity periods. Ecologists walk a pre-defined route through the site to identify birds by sight and sound, using their skills to record the presence and behaviour of different species. Binoculars are an essential, and an acoustic recording device to record notes and calls is also helpful. If you want to splash out, a thermal imager can be helpful in spotting camouflaged birds hiding amongst vegetation.
Acoustic Recording
Similarly to bats, static acoustic recorders are set up around the site to capture bird calls can capture species at any time of day and night. This is especially helpful for elusive species that shy away from humans so are difficult to spot during in-person surveys, or nocturnal species like Nightjar. The calls can then be analysed using ID software, and new AI technology can help with species identification with a good degree of accuracy.
Nest Surveys
Nest surveys involve locating and monitoring bird nests to study the productivity and progression of breeding birds. This is particularly important with climate change potentially leading to warmer, earlier Springs potentially impacting the timing of nesting behaviour and the success of nests.
Bird Ringing and Tracking
Bird ringing involves capturing birds to attach a small, uniquely numbered ring to their legs for future identification. This helps track their movement, age, condition and behaviour over time if they are recaptured.
With tracking, the birds are captured and a small, lightweight GPS tag is affixed to the feathers on their back. This is especially helpful for monitoring species that suffer threats along their migration routes, such as Cuckoo. It can help researchers identify routes taken at at which points along the route that the bird encounters any delays or are lost.
Usually, birds are captured with a large mist nest and safely extracted for ringing. A variety of equipment is used to ID, weigh and measure various biometrics before the bird is released. Thermal imagers are now being commonly used to help quickly spot and capture ground nesting or nocturnal species, such as woodcock and skylark.
by Ed Betteridge via shutterstock
Mitigation Methods
For many bird species, mitigating for our impact is fairly straightforward. Conservation efforts, both at the individual and community levels, can ensure the survival and thriving of bird species across our diverse landscapes.
Providing High-Quality Food Year-Round
One of the most effective ways to support bird populations is by ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality food throughout the year. This is especially crucial during the winter months when natural food sources are scarce. Supplying bird feeders with seeds, nuts, and fat balls can help birds maintain their energy levels and survive harsh conditions. Additionally, providing water sources that do not freeze over in winter can help with their hydration and condition of feathers.
Offering Nest Sites for Breeding Birds
Creating and maintaining nesting sites is vital for the reproduction and survival of many bird species. Installing bird boxes in gardens and open spaces can provide safe and suitable nesting environments for various birds. Ensuring that these nest boxes are the right size and placed in appropriate locations can significantly boost breeding success. For example, placing boxes in quiet, sheltered spots can help protect nesting birds from predators and harsh weather.
If you need any help finding the correct box for your target species, we have a blog you can read here.
Habitat Protection for Specialist Species
Specialist species, such as waders and farmland birds, require specific habitats to thrive. Protecting and restoring these habitats is critical. For waders, this might involve preserving wetlands and ensuring they have access to undisturbed feeding and breeding grounds. Farmland species benefit from practices that maintain and enhance agricultural landscapes, such as hedgerows, wildflower margins, and undisturbed fallow fields. Working with farmers to promote bird-friendly practices can make a significant difference in conserving these specialised birds.
Reducing the Impact of Predators
Predators like cats and rats pose a significant threat to bird populations, particularly during the breeding season when eggs and chicks are most vulnerable.
- Cat Owners: Encouraging cat owners to keep their pets indoors during peak bird activity times, especially early morning and late evening, can help reduce predation.
- Rat Control: Implementing measures to control rat populations around bird habitats can prevent these rodents from raiding nests.
- Farmer Practices: Farmers can be encouraged to use bird-friendly pest control methods and avoid practices that destroy nests or disturb breeding birds.
Further Reading
To continue learning about the ecology and conservation of birds, or to get involved in surveys, we recommend taking a look at the resources below.
