Wildlife

Welfare of Wild Animals and Agricultural Intensification

Agricultural intensification has reduced farm-associated wildlife dramatically through habitat loss, pesticide use, and reduction of natural features in farming landscapes.

Key Facts

UK farmland bird populations have declined by over 50% since 1970
Agricultural intensification has eliminated hedgerows, ponds, and field margins
Pesticide use has reduced invertebrate populations that wildlife depends on
Agri-environment scheme payments incentivize wildlife-friendly farming practices
Regenerative agriculture maintains productivity while supporting farm wildlife

Welfare Considerations

Agricultural intensification welfare harm affects billions of animals whose habitats have been eliminated or degraded by modern farming. Policy changes through agri-environment schemes and voluntary regenerative agriculture adoption represent the primary welfare improvement pathways.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that pay farmers for wildlife-friendly practices
Choose food from farms with documented environmental and wildlife commitments
Advocate for agricultural policy that rewards wildlife habitat retention
Donate to organizations working with farmers on wildlife-friendly land management