Wildlife

Wildlife: Nightjar Heathland Welfare and Conservation

Nightjars are cryptic nocturnal birds of heathland and young woodland whose welfare and conservation depends on appropriate habitat structure.

Key Facts

UK nightjar population recovered to around 6,700 churring males by 2004
Nightjars nest on bare ground in open heathland and young plantation forestry
Ground nesting makes eggs and chicks vulnerable to vehicle and foot disturbance
Young plantation forestry provides prime habitat during the 5-10 year open canopy phase
Nightjars feed on moths and other nocturnal insects caught in aerial pursuit

Welfare Considerations

Ground nesting on bare heathland leaves eggs and chicks extremely vulnerable to trampling by humans and dogs during the critical breeding period. Lighting and recreation at heathland sites at night disturbs foraging adults and may affect insect prey availability. Nocturnal wildlife deserves welfare consideration.

What You Can Do

Avoid heathland habitats with nightjars after dark during May to August
Keep dogs on leads on heathland during nightjar breeding season
Support heathland management through local wildlife trust volunteer days
Report nightjar sightings to BTO BirdTrack monitoring scheme