Wildlife

Nightjar Welfare on UK Heathland

Nightjars are nocturnal aerial insectivores that breed on heathland and young forest plantations, and have recovered significantly following targeted conservation management of their specialist habitats.

Key Facts

Nightjars are the only nocturnal aerial insectivore breeding in the UK
The UK population has increased by 50% since the 1990s following targeted heathland restoration
They nest on bare ground in heathland and forest edges, making them vulnerable to ground predators
Males produce a distinctive churring call from dusk through the night from late May to August

Welfare Considerations

Nightjar welfare is directly linked to heathland management quality. Scrub encroachment following cessation of traditional management eliminates suitable nesting terrain. Conversely, over-management that removes all tall vegetation reduces invertebrate prey availability. The balance of bare ground, low vegetation and some taller features is essential.

What You Can Do

Support heathland management by Wildlife Trusts and other conservation organisations
Avoid walking on heathland at night during May to August when nightjars are nesting
Report churring male nightjars via BTO BirdTrack to contribute to population monitoring
Support Forestry Commission and Natural England guidance on forest-edge management for nightjars