Since 1994, Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella) numbers have declined by 57% in Wales. The Yellowhammer is often thought of as a bird of arable farmland, with declines linked to agricultural intensification in this habitat specifically. However, the decline monitored by Breeding Bird Survey volunteers in Wales suggests the problem is a wider issue, as shown in the latest Breeding Bird Survey report. The move towards more efficient grass-based livestock rearing and the resultant loss of potentially seed-rich arable and fodder crops, that provide a critical source of seeds during the winter months for Welsh Yellowhammers, is thought to be a driver behind the decline. There is also additional pressure on breeding Yellowhammers in Wales because the high level of grazing in the country results in fewer unimproved, unfertilised and uncut field margins. Combined with increased herbicide spraying, this is reducing the availability of the invertebrate prey the Yellowhammers need to feed their young – thus reducing their overall breeding success. Added to this is the reduction in nest site availability due to the loss and degradation of farmland margins and hedgerows.
Source: Surfbirds.com, 13 July 2016
http://www.surfbirds.com/community-blogs/blog/2016/07/13/welsh-yellowha…
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