Wildlife

UK Willow Warbler Conservation and Migration

Conservation and welfare of willow warblers, one of the UK's most numerous summer migrants.

Key Facts

Willow warblers are among the most abundant summer migrants with over 2 million pairs
They undergo a complete moult in Africa before returning to UK breeding grounds
Males produce a beautiful descending cadence song from arrival in April
UK willow warbler populations have declined significantly in England though stable in Scotland
African Sahel habitat is critical for population viability across the breeding range

Welfare Considerations

Individual willow warblers face welfare challenges during twice-yearly migration and on African wintering grounds, with habitat conservation on both sides of their journey essential.

What You Can Do

Support international conservation programmes protecting Sahel habitat
Record willow warbler population changes to assist BTO monitoring
Plant scrub and young woodland habitat to support UK breeding populations