Wildlife

Rook Welfare: Rookery Management in the UK

Rooks are highly social corvids that breed in large colonies (rookeries) and their welfare is affected by rookery disturbance, persecution and changes in agricultural food availability.

Key Facts

UK rook population is estimated at around 1 million pairs breeding in rookeries across the country
Rookeries can contain hundreds of nests in tall trees near farmland
Rooks feed mainly on earthworms, grain and invertebrates in agricultural fields
They are a Schedule 2 pest species in the UK, legally able to be controlled in specific circumstances

Welfare Considerations

Rookeries are disturbed or destroyed by tree felling, development near nesting trees and shooting. UK rook populations have declined by around 25% since the 1970s linked to agricultural intensification reducing earthworm availability. Legal pest control is sometimes used disproportionately. Welfare priorities include protecting rookeries during the breeding season and maintaining earthworm-rich grassland near roosting and foraging habitats.

What You Can Do

Avoid felling trees containing active rook nests during the breeding season
Report inappropriate rookery disturbance to the RSPB and local wildlife authorities
Maintain earthworm-rich grassland on farms near rook foraging habitats
Support agri-environment schemes that benefit soil invertebrate communities for foraging rooks