Wild Lapwing Nest Protection: Farmland Chick Survival

Lapwing populations have declined sharply across UK farmland. Protecting nests during agricultural operations and managing predator pressure during chick-rearing are the most effective welfare interventions.

Key Facts

UK lapwing populations have declined by 80% since the 1960s due to changes in agricultural practice
Lapwings nest on open ground with short vegetation - ploughed fields and wet grassland are preferred sites
Nests are vulnerable to being destroyed by farm machinery during spring cultivation
Chicks are mobile within hours of hatching but rely on parental brooding for warmth in cold wet weather
Nest protection initiatives can be as simple as a marker flag placed near a nest for tractor drivers
Predator pressure from foxes and crows significantly reduces chick survival rates at many sites
RSPB advisers work with farmers to identify and protect lapwing nests during the most vulnerable period

Welfare Considerations

Lapwing welfare is acutely vulnerable during two stages: nest incubation (vulnerable to machine destruction) and early chick life (vulnerable to cold and predation). Nest destruction by farm machinery causes sudden death of eggs or incubating adults. Chick mortality from cold and wet weather when parents cannot brood effectively represents prolonged distress before death. Simple nest marking schemes allow tractor drivers to avoid nests at minimal cost. The combination of nest protection and managed chick-rearing habitat delivers the greatest individual welfare benefit.

What You Can Do

If you farm, contact the RSPB's farm advisory service for nest protection guidance before spring cultivation
Mark known lapwing nest locations with a flag and relay to all machinery operators working the field
Support agri-environment scheme uptake for wet grassland creation that provides chick-rearing habitat
Record lapwing nesting and chick sightings through the BTO Breeding Bird Survey