Wildlife

Wild Ring Ouzel Migration Welfare

Ring ouzels are mountain-breeding thrushes declining in the UK, with welfare challenges during migration across the Mediterranean and in upland breeding habitats.

Key Facts

Ring ouzels breed on upland moorland and mountain grassland above 300 metres altitude
UK populations have declined significantly and are concentrated in northern England and Scotland
Migration routes take them to North Africa in winter, crossing the Mediterranean in autumn
Illegal hunting in Mediterranean countries causes mortality during migration
Upland habitat changes including climate-driven vegetation shifts affect breeding habitat quality

Welfare Considerations

Ring ouzel welfare requires both upland breeding habitat management and international action to reduce hunting mortality on migration routes. UK populations are increasingly fragile.

What You Can Do

Support BirdLife International campaigns against illegal song-bird hunting in Mediterranean countries
Record ring ouzel sightings through BTO upland bird surveys
Advocate for upland management guidelines that consider ring ouzel breeding habitat needs