Wildlife

Skylark Conservation on Arable Farmland

Skylarks have declined dramatically on UK farmland and benefit from targeted agri-environment measures.

Key Facts

UK skylark populations have fallen by over 50% since the 1970s
Autumn-sown cereals leave insufficient bare ground for nest sites in spring
Skylark plots - small undrilled patches in crop fields - significantly improve breeding success
Each skylark plot can support an additional 1-2 breeding pairs
Agri-environment scheme funding is available for skylark plot creation

Welfare Considerations

Nest failure and starvation of chicks due to dense crop canopies reduce breeding welfare. Skylark plots provide safe nest sites and insect-rich feeding areas that improve survival rates across the breeding season.

What You Can Do

Ask your MP to maintain or increase agri-environment scheme funding for farmland birds
Support the RSPB's farmland bird conservation campaigns
If farming, apply for agri-environment agreements including skylark plots
Record sightings with BTO Breeding Bird Survey to track population trends