Large-scale habitat use of some declining British birds

摘要: 1. Large-scale habitat use of eight species breeding birds was considered using data collected across Britain. The were skylark Alauda arvensis (L.), dunnock Prunella modularis blackbird Turdus merula song thrush philomelos starling Sturnus vulgaris linnet Carduelis cannabina bullfinch Pyrrhula pyrrhula (L.) and reed bunting Emberiza schoeniclus (L.). All are linked by roughly synchronous population declines over the last 25 years in southern Britain (and mostly farmland landscapes). Discussion is limited to conservation status these species. 2. Breeding densities estimated for broad types used estimate sizes within types. Confidence limits on estimates derived a bootstrap procedure. 3. For most considered, holds high proportion their (in excess 50% four species), reflecting predominance this land This suggests that sympathetic changes farming practices likely provide best mechanism improving species. 4. Substantial proportions particular occur outside farmland, but different habitats. A considerable skylarks upland moor, bullfinches wooded habitats, buntings riparian Conservation group thus requires appropriate management wider countryside, including main habitats. 5. Habitats associated with human habitation hold > 20% British populations blackbird, starling, numbers other species. parks, gardens ‘green space’ may have an important impact should not be neglected conservationists.