Wildlife

Wild Nightjar Heathland and Welfare

Nightjars are summer migrants dependent on open heathland and young forestry plantations, with their welfare shaped by habitat management and climate.

Key Facts

Nightjar populations have recovered in the UK following targeted heathland management
They are insectivores requiring large moths and beetles for themselves and chicks
Nightjars nest on bare ground and are highly vulnerable to disturbance
Chicks can be crushed by recreational vehicles on heathlands
Climate change may affect arrival timing and prey phenology

Welfare Considerations

Nightjar chicks on ground nests are directly killed by vehicles and disturbed by dogs and walkers. Recreational access management including path designation and dog control during breeding season directly reduces individual welfare harm. Heathland management creating open sandy areas with nearby scrub is the key habitat intervention.

What You Can Do

Keep dogs on leads on heathland from May to August
Support heathland management and restoration projects
Follow access guidelines on managed heathland nature reserves