Wildlife

UK Redshank Conservation and Wet Grassland

Conservation of redshanks in UK wet grassland habitats and welfare of breeding and wintering birds.

Key Facts

Redshank populations have declined significantly due to drainage of wet grassland
UK holds internationally important numbers of wintering redshanks on estuaries
Both parents share chick rearing and are very vocal in defence of breeding territories
Wet grassland with shallow flooding provides optimal breeding habitat
RSPB and Wildlife Trust management of nature reserves is critical for redshank conservation

Welfare Considerations

Individual redshanks depend on wet grassland with shallow flooding for breeding, and loss of this habitat forces birds into sub-optimal conditions reducing welfare and breeding success.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB and Wildlife Trust wet grassland management programmes
Advocate for wet grassland protection in planning and agricultural policy
Record redshank breeding sightings to assist population monitoring