Wildlife

UK Corn Bunting Decline: Farmland Bird Crisis

The corn bunting has experienced one of the most dramatic population declines of any UK farmland bird, reflecting the broader crisis in agricultural biodiversity.

Key Facts

UK corn bunting populations declined by approximately 90% since the 1970s
Loss of insect-rich habitats, autumn-sown cereals replacing spring sowing, and removal of weedy field margins are primary drivers
Agri-environment scheme payments for farmland bird habitat have enabled some local recoveries
Corn bunting require rough grassland, weedy margins, and insect-rich habitat throughout their breeding season

Welfare Considerations

Individual corn bunting welfare is affected by food availability for adults and chicks, nesting habitat quality, and predator pressure. The decline of this and other farmland birds reflects systemic failures in agricultural policy that have devastating cumulative effects on wildlife welfare.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that target farmland bird habitat creation
Advocate for spring cropping incentives in agricultural support schemes
Engage with organisations monitoring and recovering corn bunting populations