Wildlife

UK Tree Sparrow Conservation and Farmland Recovery

Conservation of tree sparrows in UK farmland and the management practices supporting their recovery.

Key Facts

Tree sparrow populations declined by 97% between 1970 and 2008 in England
UK populations have partially recovered through agri-environment support
They nest colonially in tree holes, old orchards, and nest boxes
Winter seed mixes provide essential food resources for tree sparrows
Tree sparrows are more strictly farmland-associated than house sparrows

Welfare Considerations

Individual tree sparrows depend on farmland seed resources and old trees with nest holes, with agri-environment management delivering direct welfare benefits.

What You Can Do

Install tree sparrow nest boxes in suitable farmland habitats
Support RSPB and Wildlife Trust tree sparrow conservation programmes
Provide supplementary seed feeding in farmland areas during winter