UK Wildlife

Corn Bunting Farmland Conservation Crisis

The corn bunting has suffered one of the most severe declines of any UK farmland bird, losing around 90% of its population since the 1970s and now restricted to arable regions.

Key Facts

Corn bunting population declined by around 90% between 1970 and 2010
Now confined mainly to eastern England, Orkney and parts of Scotland
Males are polygamous, often holding territories with several females
Feed on cereal and grass seeds, foraging in stubble fields in winter
Skylark-like song delivered from prominent perches like fence posts or bushes

Welfare Considerations

Corn bunting declines are driven by loss of winter stubbles, early harvesting, agricultural intensification and loss of weed seeds. Targeted agri-environment management with overwinter stubbles and nesting areas has shown local recovery.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that provide overwinter stubble for corn buntings
Advocate for high-tier agri-environment agreements in key corn bunting areas
Record corn bunting on farmland surveys to inform targeted conservation