Wildlife

Lesser Redpoll Welfare in Birch Scrub

Lesser redpolls are small finches dependent on birch and alder woodland in winter, hanging acrobatically from catkins to extract tiny seeds.

Key Facts

Lesser redpolls are red-listed in the UK due to significant population declines
They breed in birch scrub, willow carr and young conifer plantations
Winter flocks join siskins and tits in mixed feeding parties
The species has declined sharply since the 1990s, with causes not fully understood

Welfare Considerations

The welfare of lesser redpolls is intrinsically linked to the availability of birch and alder woodland. Loss of scrub habitats to development and overgrazing, combined with succession pressure, has reduced available habitat. Disease transmission at supplementary feeders is an increasing concern.

What You Can Do

Retain birch scrub and willow carr in woodland management plans
Support conservation organisations campaigning for scrub habitat protection
Provide appropriate supplementary feeding during cold periods
Contribute sightings to BTO WeBS and Garden BirdWatch monitoring programmes