Wildlife

UK Skylark Conservation: Farmland Skylark Plots

The skylark has declined by over 50% in the UK since the 1970s, with targeted farmland management measures proving effective for localised recovery.

Key Facts

Skylark populations declined dramatically following the shift from spring to autumn sowing of cereals
Skylark plots - small undrilled areas in cereal fields - provide essential nesting and foraging habitat
Studies show skylark plots increase breeding densities by 50-90% on farms where they are created
The RSPB and Natural England skylark plot trial has influenced agri-environment scheme design

Welfare Considerations

Individual skylark welfare is affected by nesting habitat availability, food resources for chicks, and agricultural operations that disturb or destroy nests. Skylark plots are a simple, low-cost intervention that dramatically improves welfare and breeding success for this charismatic bird.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that incentivise skylark plot creation
Advocate for skylark plots to be a standard requirement on arable farms receiving public support
Engage with the evidence on farmland bird decline and the effectiveness of management interventions