Wildlife

Wild Lapwing Nest Protection Farming

Lapwing nest on farmland and are highly vulnerable to agricultural operations during spring. Targeted nest protection significantly improves breeding success.

Key Facts

UK lapwing populations have declined by 80% since the 1970s
Agricultural intensification has reduced breeding success to below replacement
A significant proportion of nests are destroyed by agricultural machinery
Nest markers allow farmers to avoid nests during field operations
Sympathetic farming including delayed field operations significantly increases chick survival

Welfare Considerations

Lapwing chicks and eggs destroyed by farm machinery suffer acute trauma. Breeding failures caused by agricultural operations deprive parents of successful reproduction after weeks of investment. Nest protection schemes that mark and protect nests during field operations directly reduce welfare harm to eggs and chicks.

What You Can Do

Participate in lapwing nest protection schemes if farming in lapwing areas
Support agri-environment schemes with lapwing-friendly management requirements
Record lapwing breeding attempts via BTO monitoring schemes