Status and distribution of European Nightjars Caprimulgus europaeus in the UK in 2004

摘要: Capsule The population of Nightjars in the UK increased by over 36% between 1992 and 2004. Aims To determine size distribution examine associations with forestry heathland habitat features. Methods A volunteer survey was supported professional cover remote parts Wales, areas Dorset lowland Scotland. Two visits to allocated 1-km squares were made late May mid-July. Each surveyor recorded locations calling males onto maps occurrence categories within 50 m each Nightjar registration. Results Observers surveyed 3264 2004 and, on average, 78% target (90% southern England). total number counted 4131 (range 3850‐4414), adjusted 4606 (95% CL ± 913) account for unsurveyed habitat. represented a increase 12 years. 275 10-km 2004, 2.6% since 1992. However, there evidence decline range contractions northwest Britain, including north England In 57% associated forest plantations (similar 1992) 59% (slightly higher than 1992). Conclusion National objectives conservation (UK Biodiversity Action Plan: UKBAP) reached respect stability, but 5% 2003 not met. continued national is probably attributable protection, management restoration heathlands, availability clear-fell/young conifer forests. Management and/or protection/restoration/re-creation these key habitats remains critical long-term UKBAP. issue providing foraging habitats, perhaps via agri-environment schemes, also raised.