Wildlife Welfare

Wild Lapwing Chick Survival Welfare

Lapwing chick survival is critically affected by predation pressure, farming operations, and weather conditions during their vulnerable early weeks.

Key Facts

Lapwing population has declined by 55% since the 1970s
Chicks are precocial but remain vulnerable to predators for 5-6 weeks after hatching
Agricultural machinery during hay and silage cutting causes significant chick mortality
Agri-environment scheme grazed fields provide better chick survival habitat than arable
Lapwings nest on open ground making nests vulnerable to farm vehicle damage

Welfare Considerations

Lapwing chick welfare is acutely vulnerable during their mobile but flightless early weeks when predation and farm operations cause significant mortality. Farm management that protects nesting and chick-rearing areas directly reduces individual chick mortality and suffering.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that fund lapwing habitat management
Advocate for pre-operation checks for nesting lapwings in agricultural areas
Participate in lapwing nest monitoring programmes with your local wildlife trust