Wildlife

Wild Lapwing Farmland Conservation and Chick Welfare

Lapwings have declined by 80% since the 1970s due to agricultural intensification. Their chicks are vulnerable to predation and farming operations, making welfare and conservation closely linked.

Key Facts

Lapwing chick survival on modern farms is extremely low without specific management
Agri-environment scheme options including lapwing plots significantly improve chick survival
Roller and harrow operations in spring kill thousands of nests and chicks annually
Lapwings defend nests aggressively against predators - a remarkable welfare behaviour

Welfare Considerations

Lapwing welfare requires farmers to identify and protect nests, delay spring operations in nesting areas, and create lapwing plots with short vegetation and soft soil. These measures have demonstrable welfare and conservation benefits.

What You Can Do

Support farms with Higher Level Stewardship agreements including lapwing options
Advocate for nest-marking schemes to delay farm operations around active nests
Report lapwing colonies to local Wildlife Trusts for agri-environment advice