Wildlife

Wild Great Bustard Welfare UK

Great bustards are being reintroduced to Salisbury Plain after 170 years of extinction, with welfare implications for captive-reared birds.

Key Facts

Great bustards were extinct in the UK for 170 years before reintroduction began in 2004
Captive-reared birds from Russia are released on Salisbury Plain military training area
Bustards require extensive open grassland free from disturbance and predation
Males perform elaborate lekking displays that require undisturbed areas of adequate size
Road mortality from vehicles crossing the plain is a significant welfare concern for released birds

Welfare Considerations

Captive-reared bustards released into wild habitats face significant survival challenges including predation and road collision. Post-release monitoring and veterinary support maximizes individual welfare outcomes.

What You Can Do

Support the Great Bustard Group through donations to their reintroduction program
Respect military training area restrictions that protect bustard habitat
Donate to research that improves the welfare of captive-reared birds during pre-release preparation