Wildlife

UK Ring Ouzel Conservation and Upland Management

Conservation of the ring ouzel in UK upland habitats and the threats facing this declining mountain thrush.

Key Facts

Ring ouzel populations have declined significantly due to upland habitat change
They breed on steep slopes with heather and bilberry in UK mountains
African wintering grounds are threatened by habitat degradation
Ring ouzels are sensitive to disturbance during breeding season
BTO Bird Atlas data shows significant range contraction in recent decades

Welfare Considerations

Individual ring ouzels face welfare challenges from nest disturbance and food shortage in degraded upland habitats, requiring habitat-focused conservation.

What You Can Do

Support upland habitat restoration through upland conservation charities
Report ring ouzel sightings to county bird recording groups
Avoid disturbing upland breeding areas during April to July