Wildlife

Wild Dunlin Breeding Welfare

Dunlin breeding welfare in upland bogs and coastal saltmarshes requires appropriate habitat structure and minimal disturbance during the sensitive nesting period.

Key Facts

Dunlin breed in wet upland bogs, blanket mire and coastal saltmarshes from May to July
UK breeding populations are concentrated in Scotland, with some in northern England and Wales
Drainage of blanket bog and saltmarsh has reduced available nesting habitat significantly
Nest disturbance from livestock, vehicles and recreation causes egg chilling and abandonment
Agri-environment schemes funding upland bog restoration support dunlin breeding in appropriate habitat

Welfare Considerations

Dunlin breeding welfare requires protection of wet upland and coastal habitats that have been extensively drained. Peatland restoration and reduced disturbance deliver direct welfare benefits for individual breeding birds.

What You Can Do

Support blanket bog restoration projects that create dunlin breeding habitat
Record dunlin breeding activity through BTO upland bird surveys
Advocate for upland land management policies that protect blanket bog from drainage and overgrazing