Wildlife

Little Owl Conservation: Pastoral Farmland Welfare

Overview of little owl welfare and conservation challenges on pastoral farmland in the UK.

Key Facts

Little owls were introduced to England in the 19th century and are now established
UK little owl populations declined by 54% since the 1970s
Loss of traditional pastoral farmland, old trees, and rough grassland are primary drivers
Little owls prey on invertebrates, earthworms, and small mammals
Nest box schemes showing early evidence of local population support

Welfare Considerations

Little owl welfare depends on traditional pastoral farmland with ancient trees, rough grassland, and abundant invertebrate prey. Agricultural intensification has reduced habitat quality across much of the UK. Nest box schemes and wildlife-friendly farming in little owl strongholds are practical conservation interventions. Evidence for population-level recovery from these measures is building but needs scaling.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes delivering little owl habitat in pastoral landscapes
Install little owl nest boxes on suitable farmland with old trees
Record little owl sightings through BTO BirdTrack for population monitoring