Wildlife

UK Golden Plover Conservation and Upland Nesting

Conservation of golden plovers breeding in UK upland habitats and welfare of nesting birds.

Key Facts

Golden plovers breed on moorland and blanket bog in northern England and Scotland
UK population is around 50,000 breeding pairs, one of Europe's largest populations
Adults and chicks are extremely vulnerable to weather and predation
Golden plovers also winter in large flocks on lowland farmland across the UK
Upland management including heather management affects golden plover breeding success

Welfare Considerations

Individual golden plover chicks are highly vulnerable to cold weather and predation, with upland habitat management directly influencing chick survival rates.

What You Can Do

Support upland conservation through the RSPB and Moorland Association
Advocate for sustainable moorland management that benefits ground-nesting birds
Contribute golden plover sightings to county bird recording groups