Twite: Upland and Coastal Welfare Science

Key Welfare Facts

Twites declined catastrophically in lowland Britain, now breeding mainly in the Pennines and Scottish upland moors.
They depend on upland hay meadows for nesting and weed seeds for winter survival on coastal salt marshes.
UK population is estimated at 8,000-10,000 pairs, making this species of high conservation and welfare concern.
Agri-environment schemes maintaining traditional hay meadow management are critical for breeding success.
Coastal flocks winter on salt marshes where seed availability determines individual winter survival.
Cold winter weather can cause significant mortality when seeds become inaccessible under ice and snow.

Welfare Assessment

Twite welfare requires targeted agri-environment support for upland hay meadows and protection of coastal salt marsh wintering sites. Supporting farms managing hay meadows traditionally and organisations managing salt marsh habitats directly benefits remaining populations.

What You Can Do

Support farms maintaining traditional upland hay meadow management through agri-environment grants
Donate to organisations managing coastal salt marsh wintering habitat for twites
Record twite sightings at coastal wintering sites for national recording schemes
Advocate for agri-environment payment rates that make traditional hay meadow management viable