SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – a STRATEGY for SPECIES RECOVERY C H R I S

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S I E T R S

A R T E E C G O Y V

F E O R R Y Executive summary 2

Foreword by Dr Mike Clarke 3

Introduction by Dr Mark Avery 5 Why does action for species matter?

The value of species 7 How can you put a value on birds?

The current context for conservation 9 The challenges that face us

The RSPB’s strategy for species recovery 11 How can we deliver the most for species recovery?

How do we safeguard species? 15 Case studies outlining the different methods we use to deliver conservation

So, which are our priority species… 25 Species identified as the most urgent priorities for the next five to eight years

Sustaining recovery 27 The role other organisations need to play

Conservation in the future 29 The choices that we must make

1 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY C h r i s

G o m e r s a l l

The need for species conservation has never been greater. ( r s p b - i Despite notable successes in improving the fortunes of a number m a g e s of bird species, more are being forced onto the list of those that . c o m need attention, both globally and in the UK. This document ) explains the RSPB’s strategy for UK species conservation over the next five years; how we intend to deliver species conservation and maximise our impact; and the important role that others play in delivery.

Our strategy for species recovery has identified 100 priority bird species that are most in need of help. Within this, we have prioritised 11 species most in need of research, 12 most in need of developing management solutions and 18 species most in need of ongoing conservation action, and, whether this action is most appropriately delivered by NGOs, the Government or industry.

Attitudes towards conservation are conservation alone will not deliver changing. Concern about climate change their specific requirements. is increasing, along with our realisation that biodiversity provides a range of life- Climate change, land use change, giving, life-enriching benefits. This is including intensification of agricultural rightly focusing attention on the need for practice, and the economic recession all conservation at a landscape scale, in pose major threats to species. The UK order to meet such challenges. Indeed government failed to meet the 2010 the RSPB has its own landscape-scale target of halting biodiversity loss, and programme, Futurescapes. Why then, is has now committed to a new the RSPB retaining a species-based European target of halting approach to conservation, in tandem with biodiversity loss and ecosystem a landscape-scale programme? services degradation, and restoring them, in so far as feasible, in the Species are an integral part of EU by 2020. We need policies and Helping species is at the heart of what the RSPB does, and always ecosystems and they provide benefits resources that will help the UK to has been. and services. Bird populations are an achieve these targets. indicator of the health of the planet on In the 19th Century, we fought the which our future depends. We believe If we want to have a healthy countryside, plumage trade that led to the slaughter of thousands of birds – that, to be successful, landscape-scale rich in biodiversity, where public funds such as roseate terns. In the 20th conservation must not lose the focus on secure public goods, that is sustainable, Century, we addressed the threatened species. Tailored conservation and inspires those who live in it and those problems they faced on wintering grounds in Ghana, and at present, action will always be essential for some who visit each year, then we must we’re tackling habitat issues on of the species most vulnerable to safeguard our species. UK breeding sites. extinction, as landscape-scale 2 Helping species in need is, and always has Repairing and preventing the damage been, at the heart of what the RSPB does. being caused to the natural environment is Ever since those ladies first embarked on obviously crucial. Sadly, it is no easy their mission in 1889, the RSPB has matter, as we saw from the difficulties in offered a lifeline for bird species in need. reaching consensus at the 2009 About a 120 years ago, a group of The species of greatest concern are Copenhagen Climate Change Summit. But ladies gathered to discuss the different now to those in the 19th Century, it is possible, and the RSPB has a long and and so are many of the threats they face. successful record of getting things done. current fashion in hats. But this One thing though that has not changed is Due to the scale of environmental was no idle chat over coffee – the concern that people feel for wildlife. In problems and the complexity of the 2009, a public attitude survey by the threats that face us, landscape-scale these ladies were preparing to Government showed that 85 % of people conservation is essential. However, we tackle the trade in plumes for worry about the loss of animal and plant must not lose sight of individual species species in the world. It’s this concern for that, without the right conservation action women's hats, a fashion wildlife in trouble that has always been the in the right place, could well be lost. In energy driving the RSPB’s work; without this case, the whole is not greater than responsible for the destruction of the continuing support of the public, it just the sum of the constituent parts. many thousands of egrets, birds wouldn’t happen. Extinction, whether at a global or national level is always regrettable, and when it of paradise and other species. Something else that we somehow always occurs due to human activity, abhorrent. The UK had already seen the knew is increasingly being proven. The natural world is good for us: it improves If we want to have a healthy, vibrant planet, wholesale destruction of such our physical and mental health. A healthy rich in biodiversity, then we must help the native birds as great-crested environment supplies us with a multitude species that need us. The RSPB’s vision is of life-supporting and life-enhancing to safeguard the future status of species in grebes and kittiwakes for their benefits, which are not only essential for a secure and fully functioning environment. human life, but also enrich it. In other We can’t do it all, but this is our strategy plumage, leading to early words, we need nature and nature needs for how we can make a difference. legislation such as the Sea Birds us. Yet we are, at the same time as being aware of this, responsible for the loss and Preservation Act of 1869 and the degradation of this natural world. Wild Birds Protection Act of 1880.

Wearing the glorious plumes of E l

Dr. Mike Clarke, RSPB Chief Executive e a n o

these birds was all the rage – but r

B e n t these ladies were distressed by a l l

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the plight of young birds left to b - i m a g

starve in the nest after their e s . c o parents had been shot for their m ) feathers. And, they were sufficiently concerned to take ) m o c action. The tiny organisation these . s e g a ladies began flourished, and grew m i - b p s r

( into the Royal Society for the

B Victorian lady with egret feather P S

R Protection of Birds we have today. decoration.

3 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 4 A S u The love of nature that drives people to threatened species – as one cannot n e d

y K

e support the conservation movement is succeed without the other. H n a n y e

(

d built on their personal experiences with r s y p

( b r wildlife. Species inspire us! Blue whales Nature is a joy to many people – it is to s - i p m b a - instil awe, tigers (perhaps) fear, birds of me. The millions of people who visit the i g m e a s g paradise wonderment, meerkats humour countryside or coast to experience nature . c e o s m .

c and giant pandas a protective instinct. don’t talk about ecosystem services, they ) o m

) Whatever the reaction, the more people talk about their love of nature, its beauty care, the stronger the foundations of the and how it makes them happy. Let’s not conservation movement become. forget that too.

Attitudes towards conservation are changing. Concern about climate change is growing, along with the understanding The fate of species provides an accurate commentary on our of the enormity of the challenges facing success or failure in looking after our earth – our home. us. There is increasing realisation that the Dr Mark Avery, natural world provides essential RSPB Director of Conservation Species are the building blocks of biodiversity, and an ecosystem services, such as fresh water L

and climate regulation, and the a Biodiversity, ecosystems and natural u

important part of our heritage. They inspire people, r i resources provide a range of life- e

acknowledgement of the need to protect C

giving, life-enriching benefits. a they can indicate when an ecosystem is under stress, and enhance them, is therefore rising up m p b

the agenda. These issues rightly focus e l l

they play vital roles in ecosystem function and they underpin ( r

our attention on the need to operate at a s p b -

wider landscape scale. Indeed, i our economic welfare. m a

Futurescapes, the RSPB’s own g e s . c

landscape-scale programme, will play a o m

critical role in some of our species ) recovery work and can fulfil a number of species objectives. Why then, is the RSPB retaining a species-based approach to conservation, in tandem with a landscape-scale programme?

We believe that landscape-scale conservation must be integrated with a focus on threatened species – landscapes cannot be divorced from their constituent elements. Indeed, success in taking action at a landscape scale will partly be measured by the fate of species. For example, a sustainably managed river catchment will be rich in wildlife.

A reedbed can be established to control pollution and reduce flooding, but might not necessarily attract bitterns. Establishing new woodlands might help sequester carbon, but won’t necessarily benefit lesser-spotted woodpeckers. Landscape-scale projects are clearly essential. However, they need to be complemented with targeted actions for

5 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 6 M

a The Economics of Ecosystems and How can we economically value the benefits CHOUGHS IN CORNWALL r k

H Biodiversity (TEEB) report estimated that that birds provide us in terms of recreation, Cornwall was once a stronghold for a m

b the cost of ongoing biodiversity loss by tourism, education; as source of inspiration; choughs, which are deeply rooted in l i n

( 2050 would amount to 7 % of global Gross as indicators of environmental health and for

r Cornish culture and legend. In 1973, s p

b Domestic Product (GDP) if no conservation providing a sense of place? The RSPB choughs became extinct in Cornwall, but - i m

a action was taken. In the UK, the steady campaign to protect albatrosses has, since conservationists and farmers worked g e s

. decline of natural resources will have 2005, raised £3.75 million from people, most together for years to create better c o m negative impacts upon a wide range of of who have never and will never actually conditions should they one day come back. Ecosystems, biodiversity and natural resources support ) social issues including public health, see an albatross. The knowledge that these In 2001 three wild birds arrived on the economies, societies and individual well-being around the globe economic growth and development. The birds exist and the wish that they should Lizard, and in spring 2002 a pair bred for by providing a range of life-giving, life-enriching benefits. The environment supports substantial economic continue to exist has been enough to trigger the first time in 50 years. In nine years, this activity and generates significant benefits such astonishing generosity. pair and some of their surviving offspring value of these ecosystem services, such as nutrient recycling, for a wide range of economic sectors. have successfully reared 55 youngsters, a Investment in the environment therefore The following case studies provide some new generation of Cornish Choughs. food, fresh water, climate regulation, recreation and cultural supports, maintains and expands our indication of the economic value of the benefits, are however often ignored or poorly options for economic growth and species work we do. At Southerly Point on the Lizard, visitors sustainable development. Such investments are given the opportunity to observe these captured within markets, and this contributes to the can be a cost-effective response to the WHITE-TAILED EAGLES ON MULL rare and acrobatic birds from a watch point loss and degradation of biodiversity. Birds are an climate change crisis, offering value for The RSPB has been central to a long-term during the breeding season. Since opening money, support for local economies, project to reintroduce white-tailed eagles to in 2003, tens of thousands of visitors have integral part of ecosystems and provide creating jobs and maintaining these benefits the UK. The species was persecuted to come every year to catch a glimpse, numerous benefits and services. How then, for the long term. extinction in the UK during the Victorian era. or maybe even a fly-past, of these Following the reintroduction and pioneering birds. In 2004, early on during can we economically value the benefits Employment, visitor spending, reserve conservation programme, in 2010 46 pairs the birds’ recolonisation, it was estimated expenditures, use of contractors and successfully fledged a total of 36 chicks. It’s that over a three-month period the that birds provide us in terms of agricultural operations are all ways in which vital to fully recognise the part played by presence of choughs attracted an extra recreation, tourism, education; as conservation activities can contribute to farmers and land managers in this project, £118,000 of visitor spending to the Lizard local economies. The RSPB manages over and to acknowledge some of the issues they area, supporting 3.2 FTE jobs. sources of inspiration; as indicators 200 reserves, which often bring benefits to face in living and working with eagles on of environmental health and for sites that previously supported little or no their land. But, it’s also important to SEABIRD COLONIES ON economic activity. The total number of local appreciate the positive effects such projects BEMPTON CLIFFS providing a sense of place? jobs supported is estimated to be over can have on communities. The RSPB’s Bempton Cliffs nature reserve 1000. This is comprised of 268 direct in North Yorkshire supports 200,000 employees, 101 jobs created through direct The eagles have excited the public nesting birds. It is the best place in England spend by reserves, 324 from agricultural imagination. A public viewing project has to get close-up views of breeding seabirds lets, and 335 jobs from visitor spending. been running on Mull for 10 years. Most local and has good educational facilities. A Spending by visitors can benefit a wide wildlife tourism businesses say eagles are popular tourist attraction, it receives more range of enterprises in a local area, through the top species people want to see when than 60,000 visits per year. Spending by direct, indirect and induced impacts, also they visit Mull. The eagles bring £2 million tourists in local businesses, such as cafes, helping to provide income and employment each year to the island economy through B&Bs and sightseeing trips, is critical to the for local people. In 2002, over 1.2 million spend on goods and services – and it’s health of the local economy. In 2009, more visitors to RSPB reserves were assessed as sustainable income. The eagles are also than 80 % of visitors to Bempton cited the spending at least £11.7 million per year, and bringing significant other benefits to local seabirds as a main reason for their visit. supported 335 full-time equivalent (FTE) communities. Dedicated educational RSPB estimates show that the seabird jobs in local economies around the materials allow local teachers to use the colonies at Bempton Cliffs reserve directly reserves. RSPB reserves are active and eagles as a teaching resource. Moreover, a attract more than £750,000 of tourism economically diverse tracts of land, percentage of the payments made by expenditure to the local economy. This providing employment, producing rural visitors to the viewing hide is passed to the equates to almost 25 FTE jobs being Wildlife can be economically important. The products and contributing substantially Eagle Fund. And, in 2009/10, £13,000 from supported, or approximately 6 % of all Isle of Mull benefits by £2 million per year to local communities and economies, the Fund was distributed to a diverse range employed people in the Bempton Parish from tourists who want to see the white- some of which are in remote and deprived of local community projects. Council area. tailed eagles, and some of this income is rural areas. distributed to a diverse range of local community projects.

7 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 8 B A o n b d

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( s r p s b p - b i m - i m a Right: Turtle dove populations have g a e g s

decreased by 70 % since 1994. The e . s c . o species no longer breeds in Wales and c m o m ) could vanish as a breeding bird in ) England in the near future. They are a target species for agri-environment schemes in England. The need for species conservation has never been greater. ECONOMIC BACKDROP The vital public goods and services provided Our species conservation planning will Despite notable successes in improving the fortunes of a number Eliminating the UK’s budget deficit within by farming need to be properly supported need to be responsive to climate change of bird species, more are being forced onto the list of those that five years requires deep and enduring through funding mechanisms, as projections and monitoring, and reductions to budgets of nearly all environmental benefits are not adequately conservation investment in those species need attention. Climate change, changes to land use, government departments and devolved rewarded by the market. A key principle is affected will need to be adapted as intensification of land management and the economic recession administrations. Decisions made by political that the spending of public money in the appropriate. Monitoring of what is actually leaders, in response to financial constraints, land management sector should lead to the happening is essential, increasing our all pose major threats to birds, and will have an untold impact on will have long-lasting implications for our positive management of public benefits, knowledge about climate change impacts natural environment, climate and well-being. including biodiversity and natural resources. and enabling management methods to be conservation and the environment. There is a serious concern that the funding Current agriculture expenditure does not, in adapted in response. Retaining a gap, which already exists in conservation, the main, reflect this principle, with the nationwide process for monitoring species will be increased. Actions must further majority distributed through direct subsidies and reporting on outcomes is crucial. rather than threaten advancement towards to farmers. These payments have unclear biodiversity restoration and halting its loss, objectives and fail to adequately secure Conservation objectives will need to evolve and new policies must not undermine the public goods. Agri-environment schemes, to maximise species’ ability to adapt to progress already made. however, provide funds to support specific climate change. This will involve ensuring farming activities to benefit wildlife, water, existing populations are robust and healthy, Both regulation and incentive instruments landscape and other environmental priorities. usually by halting declines and reversing are critical for encouraging the land The more targeted schemes deliver the habitat degradation and fragmentation; the management that species need. It is clear clearest conservation outcomes, providing a protected area network will play a crucial that savings will be sought from the vital and cost-effective mechanism for role here. This will give species the best environment sector, as they will across securing the conservation of important chance of withstanding new climate- government. However, it is essential that farmland species. A key challenge for future related pressures, and maximise their core funds are protected, as without them agriculture policies is to enable farmers to potential to disperse to new areas if their our natural environment could be irreparably continue to produce high-quality food, while viable climatic ranges shift. Climate-aware damaged and species lost, perhaps forever. also making sufficient space for wildlife. conservation will involve more landscape- It is vital that decision-making is driven by a scale approaches, restoring ecological long-term consideration of the environment. ADAPTING TO CLIMATE CHANGE function across whole landscapes, in a way Short-term savings could translate to longer- As climate change bites deeper, reducing that integrates with other land uses rather term costs for our economy and well-being. our focus on species conservation would be than competing with them. catastrophic for the most vulnerable LAND USE species. With growing uncertainty about the The EU Birds Directive, introduced 30 years Farmland covers 75 % of the UK, and there impacts of climate change, the conservation ago, and the subsequent Habitats Directive, is a long history of effort to ensure that and environment sectors need to plan for an provide a strong legal framework for effective conservation is integrated with uncertain future. Research published in the tackling many of the colossal challenges other farming activities to safeguard the climatic atlas of European Breeding Birds 1 that lie ahead. Ultimately, if we want to be farmed environment. In farming and other suggests that, even under a mid-range a nation with a healthy natural environment, key land use sectors such as forestry, emissions scenario, suitable climatic rich in biodiversity, where ecosystems decisions must be driven by environmental conditions for the average bird species will provide life-supporting and enriching as well as economic needs if we are to shift nearly 550 km north-east, be reduced in services and where natural resources are see biodiversity recovery on the scale we size by a fifth, and overlap the current range used sustainably, then we must invest in all need. by just 40 % by the end of this century. nature and safeguard our species.

1 B. Huntley et al (2007) A climatic atlas of European breeding birds; Lynx Edicions, Barcelona. 9 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 10 B

e Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of the species recovery journey. n

H a l

l THE SIZE OF Thirteen stages can be identified to describe the position on the curve as

( r s

p described in Table 1. b - i m THE TASK a

g Monitoring e s

. Why do we need a strategy? The sheer c o m scale of our ambition for helping species ) recover is breathtaking, but then it must be – the task we face is truly daunting. To D1 achieve the most we can with the What do we mean by species recovery? We mean taking resources at our disposal requires a lot of D2 careful planning. action to improve the conservation status of threatened or D3 The RSPB has been very active in helping Diagnosis T1 declining species. Species are falling into adverse conservation to define conservation priorities for UK bird T2 P Sustainable species, working with expert partners to o T3

status more quickly than we can facilitate their recovery. How p management

base conservation plans on scientific data. u Solution testing l

then, can we deliver the most for species recovery? The This has led to the publication of the a t

i R1 following pages answer this question by assessing the size of recently revised Birds of Conservation o Concern 3 (BoCC) 2, which identifies 52 high n R2 S3 R3 S1 S2 the task, explaining the species recovery journey and setting priority UK species (the Red List). The Deployment out our criteria for prioritisation. process of developing the BoCC has also of solution helped inform the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). In addition, there are a number Time of restricted range species for which the RSPB undertakes management, which are The entire recovery process is dependent on monitoring, without which we cannot not currently declining or threatened but assess the conservation status of a species, the relative priority we should afford it, occur in small numbers on our reserves, for or the response of the population to remedial action undertaken. example the wood sandpiper. Taking the BoCC red list species, the BAP species and Table 1 A description of the 13 stages of the species recovery journey. those of regional importance, we identified 100 species to be considered by our Stage Code Description

strategy for species recovery. Monitoring M Purely monitoring, no action taken Diagnosis D1 No research undertaken/cause of decline unknown The process by which we approach species (research) D2 Research underway, but limited understanding of cause of decline recovery is consistent between species. D3 Research is providing strong indication of cause of decline For each, the road to recovery can be Solution T1 Diagnosis provides sufficient results to trial solutions, but work only initiated recently likened to a journey. The recovery journey testing (research T2 Trial management underway, but not yet clear evidence that it can can be presented as a curve, as shown in delivery) deliver objectives figure 1. This recovery curve is a simple T3 Trial management is providing strong indication that it will means of representing the way we get a deliver objectives species back to favourable status. It has a Deployment R1 Work initiated to roll out solutions across the species’ range of solution start point, when it is recognised that the R2 Solutions adopted across the species’ range but too early to demonstrate success against population/range targets species is entering an adverse conservation R3 Solutions enable achievement against population/range targets but only status, and an end point, when it is back on with continued conservation intervention a sustainable footing. The route taken and Sustainable S1 Indication that population/range targets being achieved with minimal the length of the journey will differ between management conservation intervention S2 Good evidence available that population/range targets being achieved and species, and there may be unexpected can be sustained with little or no conservation intervention (ie population twists and turns along the way. maintained within regular land or marine-management practices) S3 Population/range targets achieved and the species’ conservation status secured (ie Green or Amber (not declining), no longer meets BAP criteria)

1 M.A. Eaton et al (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern; The population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man; British Birds 102, pp 296-341. 11 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 12 Andy Hay (rspb-images.com) 4 1 ? , s t s f f i g o l

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There are a number of different techniques used in conservation to help species recover. The delivery mechanism needed varies between species and sometimes between geographical areas for the same species. The following section details the different types of Sometimes the situation is so dire delivery mechanisms in the conservation toolbox and provides for that we must take direct action. Without urgent conservation each an example case study, drawn from our work, Direct intervention is used when we have dedicated project officer to work on a one- support, some species could be lost from certain areas, if not the whole identified a rapidly declining species, to-one basis with land managers. This is to illustrate how these are implemented. of the UK. For example, in England, which requires direct, targeted action. generally a more expensive approach, but twite bred in 12 counties in the early Sometimes a population is in truly may be the only way to avoid losing a 1900s, but by 2000 they were only desperate straits because of its small size population altogether. At the outset, our recorded in six counties, centred around the South Pennines. or range, or the magnitude and rapidity of knowledge may be limited so monitoring decline. In these (rare) cases, the RSPB of such projects is essential to ensure we may implement intensive bespoke learn what works and what doesn’t and management, based on the best available adapt our management accordingly. Then knowledge, at a few sites, which cover a we can seek longer-term and more high percentage of the population. For sustainable solutions. these species, we often employ a

Case study: twite • loss of suitable bracken and tall heather Stage on recovery curve: and/or bilberry nesting habitat trial management • loss of seed-rich winter feeding habitat UK population status: (developing saltmarsh) <10,000 pairs declining In England we are working with partners in England population status: the South Pennines to identify specific approximately 80 pairs measures that will benefit breeding twite. Fifty years ago twite bred in at least 12 We have a dedicated project officer English counties and were recorded from working to ensure these measures are most of the northern England upland made available through agri-environment blocks. However, recent surveys of twite schemes and to help farmers to integrate in England have reported very worrying them into their management. declines. The ultimate cause of the population decline in England is unknown. There is increasing evidence that the much Three main factors have been suggested larger population in Scotland is also in but we don't yet know their relative rapid decline. importance: • loss of flower rich hay meadows and unimproved grasslands which provide seed food in the breeding season

15 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 16 The RSPB works with farmers to help them to get the best for wildlife from available agri-environment schemes. For almost a quarter of our 100 priority bird species, A A

n The RSPB’s nature reserves are of huge importance to many n

agri-environment schemes represent the major, or indeed d d y r e birds, and may be the last refuge for some. But our reserves H

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Several publicly funded schemes are on They provide payments for aspects of major, or indeed the only, route to full offer to land managers to help them adopt farming which benefit the countryside, and recovery. The schemes are uniquely techniques sympathetic to wildlife’s needs. for which farmers would not otherwise be placed to deliver suitable habitat Perhaps the most important of these are rewarded. Farmland represents a significant management both for widespread Nature reserves perform essential roles in The RSPB believes some areas of land are population, 90 % of black-tailed godwit, agri-environment schemes. These channel land use in the UK and it is therefore species declining as a result of conservation, as well as protecting of such importance for wildlife that they 40 % of red-necked phalarope and 90 % government funding into supporting extremely important in biodiversity terms. agricultural intensification and rare, range- habitats and species. They facilitate the should be managed primarily for their of roseate tern. farmers who manage their land in a wildlife- restricted species including cirl bunting development of habitat management conservation value. We have been friendly way, recognising the important role For almost a quarter of the 100 priority bird and corncrake needing more intensive techniques, and provide vivid managing nature reserves for decades; For a quarter of the species in our farmers play in managing the countryside. species, agri-environment schemes are a care through specialised management. demonstrations of those techniques in we acquired our first almost 80 years ago. strategy, RSPB nature reserves will be a action. They may help increase the The total area of RSPB nature reserves is key delivery mechanism. resilience of species threatened by now greater than the area of Bedfordshire. Case study: skylark Case study: corncrake Altering the pattern of mowing can reduce climate change impacts and provide This network of habitat jewels supports a Stage on recovery curve: recovery Stage on recovery curve: recovery this mortality, and providing tall herbage in places where the public can gain a love high proportion of the UK breeding management management early spring can optimise habitat suitability of wildlife and an understanding of the population of 13 bird species, for example, Population status: approx. 1.8 million pairs, Population status: 1214 calling males, for the species after its annual migration value of biodiversity. approximately 30 % of total bittern declining stable or increasing from Africa. Mechanisms to provide such The song of the skylark is one of the most Corncrakes once bred in every county in conditions, whilst maintaining agricultural familiar and inspiring sounds in the UK Britain but suffered a marked decline in the viability, were trialled on RSPB nature Case study: bittern Historically, reedbed has been lost by Minsmere, Ham Wall and Lakenheath Fen. summer countryside. Yet, due to changes in 19th Century, which continued through most reserves, and then demonstrated to Stage on recovery curve: recovery being drained and converted for The last two are part of a strategic move farming practice over the last 25 years, the of the 20th Century. By 1990 they were agricultural communities. management agriculture, and without the right to create reedbeds in sustainable population has dwindled by more than half. almost entirely confined to islands off the Population status: 87 males, increasing management, some has dried out and locations away from areas of East Anglian Research has shown that by the breeding northern and western Scottish coast. RSPB policy staff negotiated for national Bitterns became extinct as breeding birds turned to scrub or woodland. It needs coast which are vulnerable to sea level season, modern, autumn sown crops agricultural subsidy payments and grants to in the UK in the late 19th Century as a ongoing management to prevent it drying rise. The RSPB works in partnership with a become too dense for the adults to forage Corncrakes forage and rear their young in tall include financial help for farmers and result of wetland drainage and hunting, out and to control vegetation succession. number of organisations to improve and in and the chicks are likely to starve or be grass and herbs, particularly hay and silage crofters who deliver corncrake conservation but slowly recolonised from the early 20th create reedbed habitat, particularly to predated. The solution? By leaving small meadows. A high proportion of nests and benefits. We also promoted the designation Century. They came close to extinction in Reedbed is amongst the most important create a network of breeding sites for plots (4x4 m) unsown within the crop at a broods are vulnerable to destruction by of important corncrake sites as Special the UK again late last century. Breeding habitats for birds in the UK, and is home to bitterns. Acquiring and managing suitable density of 2 per ha, skylarks are able to find agricultural mowing. A corncrake Protection Areas (SPAs) under EU law, and bitterns need large areas of wetland a number of species that are high priorities land, and encouraging other landowners enough food to feed their young. The only conservation programme led by the RSPB for these to have grant schemes for land containing extensive wet reedbeds and for the RSPB. RSPB reserves comprise and managers are essential to the snag is that this has to be done on a vast and co-financed by the EU LIFE scheme managers who support the species. All this, open water, with lots of fish and around one sixth of the UK's reedbed and recovery of bitterns. scale to mirror the distribution of the birds if began in 1993; it helped show the bird’s and in particular the efforts of farmers and amphibians, which are their main foods. include Strumpshaw Fen, Titchwell, the population decline is to be addressed. decline could be attributed to the crofters in remote areas of Scotland, have Agri-environment schemes are one of the introduction of mowing machines and the succeeded in reversing the population very few mechanisms, which could intensification of hay and silage production. decline in the UK. From a low of 480, the UK potentially deliver on such a scale. population has increased to 1214 in 2010.

17 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 18 S D t a e v v i e d

W B l o a i o n t

t o n

( r s p b - i m a g e s . c o m )

If we are to have a healthy countryside rich in wildlife, we must protect the most important wildlife sites. A carefully protected and If our biodiversity is to be maintained, designation of land and sea as Special properly managed network of sites, For many of the widespread bird species of agents, corporate and private individuals. For widespread species like the swift, on land and at sea, is crucial. The Dee effective mechanisms to ensure the Protection Areas to protect internationally conservation concern, site-specific We deliver free, high-quality advice over a nature reserves are not the answer. estuary is important for redshanks as protection of the most important places important populations of rare, threatened Raising awareness of the issues and measures, such as reserve acquisition or wide range of habitats to land managers encouraging appropriate legislation well as other wintering waders and for wildlife are vital. A carefully protected and migratory bird species. Nationally wildfowl, and has been given a site protection, are not the solution to their responsible for over 100,000 ha per year. and habitat management is often the European Special Area of and properly managed network of important sites for birds are designated as problems. The conservation status of these Communicating with policy and decision- way forward. Conservation (SAC) designation. terrestrial and marine protected sites is of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (or Areas species in the UK is dependent on the land makers is an essential part of species crucial importance, and is achieved of Special Scientific Interest in Northern management actions of others. Most of recovery. We may work out what needs to through the designation and management Ireland). Both designations are aimed at the UK’s land and sea will continue to have be done to help a species, but we then of the most important sites for wildlife. In ensuring the protection and sound uses other than supporting wildlife. We need to persuade others to change the UK there are national, European and management of the habitats of birds. actively advise on habitat management legislation, guidelines or current practices international laws which ensure that The UK’s wintering waders and wildfowl that will benefit wildlife, whilst still fulfilling in order to provide a secure future for important sites for wildlife are protected. are generally well protected within the needs of its primary function, whether many species. Advocacy and advice The EU ‘Birds’ Directive requires the this system. that is agriculture, business use, public are generally mechanisms used in open space or even gardens of private conjunction with others, and often aim to Case study: redshank agriculture and losses to sea level rise, homes. The RSPB has advisory staff in all implement, underpin and strengthen other Stage on recovery curve: diagnosis which are likely to accelerate in the future. parts of the UK, working with government delivery methods. Population status: approximately 39,000 agencies, consultants, agronomists, land pairs, declining In winter, redshanks aggregate on suitable Breeding redshank numbers have areas of habitat in large numbers. They are Case study: swifts The RSPB is developing a web-based declined since the mid 20th Century. vulnerable to cold weather and can suffer Stage on recovery curve: diagnosis inventory of swift nest sites. Anyone can The redshank breeds on wet grasslands high mortality in winter; this can be Population status: approximately 85,000 provide records of nest sites or screaming on upland and lowland farms, and on exacerbated by changes to important food pairs, declining parties, which tell us nests are nearby, via saltmarshes. There has been a significant resources and habitat. Protecting sites, Swifts have declined in the UK since the a page on the RSPB website. This feeds decline in redshank numbers in many such as at the Dee estuary, enables us to 1970s and are on the Amber list of the into a national database called the National areas of the UK. On farmland, the main ensure the protection of important feeding Birds of Conservation Concern. Swifts nest Biodiversity Network. This will tell us reasons for this reduction have been the and wintering areas for these birds and in cavities, predominantly in house roofs, where swift hotspots are, and will help drainage, re-seeding and fertilising of other wintering waders and waterfowl. under eaves and behind loose tiles. A target action for swifts. Developers, local grassland. There have also been The RSPB has a strong record of leading theory for the cause of their authorities and others will be able to check significant reductions in the area of successfully defending protected sites decline is the loss of nest sites through if swifts are present where development/ saltmarsh on many of our estuaries due to from damaging development. building improvement, although this is renovation/demolition is to take place, and the conversion of these areas for not proven. then get advice on how to help this vulnerable bird.

19 20 C A h n r d i s y

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For some species, especially those with low population levels, human disturbance and persecution can have a serious impact.

Translocation is the purposeful movement purpose of translocation is to re-establish Translocation projects must be undertaken For some species, illegal persecution and and prosecution of offenders. The work of improvement in their conservation status. by humans of living organisms from one native species in places where they have with care and after due consideration and human disturbance continue to have a the unit is focused on conservation However, persecution continues to area to another. The term covers been lost or are at serious risk of being consultation. They need to be carefully significant impact, principally for those with priorities, in particular, birds of prey, some of significantly limit the numbers and/or reintroductions (returning a species to an lost, where the factors causing the decline designed and executed; it is crucial that lower population levels and slow population which continue to be persecuted because of distribution of iconic species including area from where it has been lost), are now controlled, to contribute to the work undertaken is supported by sound growth rates. The RSPB carries out the threat – perceived or real – of predation golden eagles, hen harriers and red kites. introductions (moving a species to an area long-term survival of the species. decision-making. The RSPB uses the protection and deterrent initiatives at of game birds and racing pigeons, or are The RSPB has instigated or assisted with where it did not formerly occur) and ‘1995 IUCN/SSC Guidance for individual nest sites and investigates crimes taken illegally from the wild for falconry. the majority of prosecutions of individuals supplementation (reinforcing a small Translocation projects generate a large Reintroductions’ to evaluate and perpetrated against wild birds. The for persecuting birds of prey, including the population with individuals from elsewhere amount of public interest and popular implement species reintroduction and Investigations Section is a specialist unit at Historically, persecution has led to the only two successful cases in relation to in its range). Introductions are very often support and provide publicity for re-stocking projects, whether promoted the RSPB that works closely with police and extinction of five birds of prey from the UK. hen harriers. The work of the RSPB and detrimental to the environment and only conservation. Translocation projects often by RSPB or others. These projects are other law enforcement agencies to record These have been re-established following various partner organisations continues to very rarely have a role in conservation. act as conservation flagships for the RSPB usually very costly and time-consuming, incidents of wild bird crime and assist in the successful conservation initiatives, and in highlight the widespread criminality Reintroductions, however, have the and serve as examples of positive and should not be undertaken lightly. In investigation of cases, and the apprehension recent years there has been an encouraging affecting many birds of prey. potential to make a substantial conservation measures. However, the future, as climate change impacts contribution towards recovering translocation can be one of the more become even more apparent, some Case study: hen harrier driven grouse shooting in England and populations of birds of prey. This includes populations of threatened and locally difficult and contentious topics of species may need a helping hand to move Stage on recovery curve: Scotland. This is in stark contrast to the five assessing the value of practical techniques extinct species. The RSPB sees conservation, with much debate as to to new areas either to track the shift in trial management pairs that nested successfully on driven such as diversionary feeding of hen translocation as a valuable tool for when and where such activities are their preferred climate space or because Population status: 806 pairs, stable grouse moors in 2008. In England, the hen harriers during the breeding season. Trials conservation, although never as a acceptable and desirable. land use change makes part of their Hen harriers were formerly widespread harrier is on the brink of extinction as a show that this can significantly reduce substitute for in-situ conservation. The existing range unsuitable. throughout the UK, but were restricted by breeding bird for a second time, with only predation on red grouse chicks, reducing persecution to Orkney and the Western seven successful nests in 2010, six of which the potential for conflict with grouse Isles by 1900. Illegal persecution of birds of were in the Forest of Bowland, in shooting and hence removing the Case study: red kite up; the RSPB working in partnership with estimated population numbers for the UK prey on heather moorland, associated with Lancashire. The RSPB works with Natural motivation to kill hen harriers. Strict Stage on recovery curve: recovery statutory agencies and others. of around 1,500 breeding pairs. The poor practice on some driven grouse moors, England and United Utilities to protect this enforcement of the law protecting hen management project in Northern Ireland (begun in 2008) is the main factor behind the hen harrier’s remaining stronghold. harriers continues to be essential, and Population status: approximately 1,500 These projects have been a tremendous and Aberdeenshire (begun in 2007) should continued unfavourable status. The RSPB's novel legislative sanctions and penalties pairs, increasing success, not only in achieving their original also be self-sustaining by 2012. This work for hen harriers focuses on tackling The RSPB seeks legal solutions to the should be considered for those found to be The red kite was persecuted to near- conservation aim but also in terms of project is all the more important as the red illegal killing and disturbance, which holds conflict between hen harriers and the carrying out or facilitating persecution. extinction in the 19th Century, with only a public awareness, participation and profile. kite has been classified globally as Near the population well below the carrying practice of driven grouse shooting. We are a These include strengthening cross handful of pairs surviving in mid-Wales. In Reintroduced populations are now Threatened following steep declines capacity of the available habitat, and finding funding partner of the Langholm Moor compliance penalties for landowners on 1989, the first two projects to reintroduce considered self-sustaining in Wales, across the rest of Europe. a solution to the conflict with driven grouse Demonstration Project, which aims to show whose land persecution takes place, and red kites to England and Scotland were set England and Northern Scotland, with shooting. In the absence of persecution, it how the needs of an economically viable the creation of an offence that would make has been calculated that 500 pairs could grouse moor can be met alongside nature employers and managers liable for the breed on moorland currently managed for conservation objectives, including healthy actions of their staff.

21 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY 22 A A n n d d y y

H H a a PARTNERSHIP WORKING y y

( ( r r s s p p As the challenges of species recovery grow, a partnership approach is increasingly necessary. Partnerships b b - - i i bring synergy. Expertise from industry and government brought to the table at an early stage may influence m m a a the shape of initial management prescriptions. Specialist knowledge and resources can be shared. g g e e s s . . c c o o Countless organisations and individuals have been involved with the case studies outlined and some of m m ) ) these are listed here:

BBC Wildlife Fund, Biffaward, British Mountaineering Council, Broads Authority, Calderdale Council, Concern for Swifts (Scotland), Countryside Council for Wales, Defra, Environment Agency, Environment and Heritage Services, Forestry Commission, Forestry Commission Scotland, Fylde Bird Club, Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, Gateshead Council, Hertfordshire and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, Kirklees Council, Lancashire Constabulary, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, Ministry of Defence, National Trust, Natural England, Northumberland National Park, Northumberland Water, North Pennines AONB, Paignton Zoo, Peak District National Park Authority, Pennine Prospects, Pensthorpe Conservation Trust, Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, Scottish Natural Heritage, Scottish Wildlife Trust, Sita Trust, South Pennines Twite Study Group, Southern England Kite Group, Tanner Trust, Swift Conservation, United Utilities, Welsh Kite Trust, West Cornwall Local Action Group, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, Zoological Society of London.

Almost a third of our 100 priority bird species are still at the very RSPB East Scotland White-tailed Eagle Project. Thirteen chicks arrive beginning of their journey to from Norway. The RSPB along with partners from Scottish Natural recovery. The first step is For 31 of the 100 priority bird species the knowledge into a programme of Heritage and Forestry Commission Scotland are there to meet them. diagnostic research, to determine the causes of the delivery mechanism is currently unclear; conservation action, which may involve declines. In particular, there are we simply don’t yet know what to do. testing management prescriptions or serious concerns about some of Once it has been identified that a species conducting feasibility studies for our long-distance migrants, is facing difficulties, we need to reintroduction projects. Once these such as the cuckoo. understand its requirements and the measures have been tested and shown to specific threats that it faces through work, they can be implemented as part of research studies. We can turn this a recovery programme.

Case study: cuckoo food supply has been impacting the Stage on recovery curve: diagnosis population, but this is not yet known. Population status: approximately 20,000 Cuckoos are brood parasites, laying their pairs, declining eggs in the nests of other birds, which are Cuckoos are iconic birds, with their duped into rearing the young cuckoo. instantly recognisable call, and are known Cuckoos usually lay their eggs in the nests across Europe as a herald of spring. of birds of the same species by which they Despite this apparent familiarity, they are themselves were fostered, typical foster now rarely seen. The cuckoo is one of a parents being dunnocks, meadow pipits or number of summer visitors to the UK, reed warblers, and the first two of these which are declining in numbers (others species have themselves declined. A include yellow wagtail, wood warbler, shortage of suitable host nests could turtle dove and spotted flycatcher), and this therefore be impacting on cuckoo seems to be a Europe-wide decline. populations. Another possibility is that their wintering grounds on the far side of the As yet, we cannot take any direct Sahara have become less suitable, and that conservation action to help cuckoos as the this is reducing the number returning to causes of their decline are not clear. the UK to breed. The RSPB has begun Cuckoos in the UK eat insects, especially research into these factors and into cuckoo large, hairy caterpillars that most other population trends and ecology to find out birds avoid. It is possible that a decline in what is responsible for their declines.

23 24 L …FOR DEVELOPING RESEARCH? a u The following species are at the diagnosis stage of the recovery curve. These species need research designed to r i e

C enable identification of the causes of declines so that solutions for recovery can be developed. a m Table 2 p b

e Top priority Pop. Reasons for, and factors contributing to, species declines l l

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a Common scoter -83% The common scoter breeding population began to decline sharply in 1970, possible causes include disturbance, predation, g

e habitat changes and the planting of conifer plantations in their breeding habitat. s . c

The following species have been identified as the most urgent o m Cuckoo -61% Cuckoo declines may be due to food shortages caused by changes in agricultural practice and climate or because of priorities for our attention over the next five to eight years. The ) declines in other bird species, which act as ‘hosts’ for this brood parasite. Lesser redpoll -87% All these birds are associated with woodland habitat, which has seen many species newly added to the red list. Declines list is not meant to be a straitjacket and we expect it will require Wood warbler -62% are thought to be linked to changes in woodland structure. There is evidence that increases in woodland age, a reduction in (12yr) woodland management and, in some areas, increased deer browsing are prominent factors. Tree pipit -70% some flexibility to meet regional and country needs. We also Hawfinch -74% (19yr) acknowledge that things can change rapidly and other species Kestrel -21% Following heavy persecution between 1880 and 1920, kestrels suffered a further serious decline in late 1950s and in 1960s from effects of organochlorine pesticides. They recovered following the withdrawal of pesticides, but numbers started to may gain priority in this timescale. decline again in 1980s, probably as a consequence of agricultural intensification reducing habitat and food availability. Following a period of stability, declines are now occurring in some parts of its range.

Slavonian grebe -41% The Slavonian grebe breeding range has always been concentrated within a radius of 40 km of Inverness but the number of lochs being used on an annual basis shows a worrying, long-term decline. There is a suspicion that in addition to loch specific factors, climate change may be having an effect as declines in Scotland have been mirrored by large increases in Iceland. Swift -29% We are unsure as to the exact causes of swift declines; however, loss of nest sites from development is considered a (12yr) major issue. Whinchat -37% Whinchat declines have been linked to the impacts of post-war losses of unimproved, extensively managed grassland. (12yr) Shag -45% Shags are particularly susceptible to periodic crashes in populations, caused either by mortality or deferred breeding, which can take them a while to recover from. The reasons for recent declines are uncertain. However, adverse winter weather, predation, limited food availability, exploitation by fisheries and climate change are potential contributors. *Population trend data taken from the Eaton, M.A. et al (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern; The population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man; British Birds 102, pp 296-341. …FOR TRIALLING SOLUTIONS? These species are at the trial management stage of the recovery curve. Action needs to be focused upon testing and deploying conservation management solutions to progress species populations into recovery and sustainable management. Table 3 Top priority Pop. Reasons for, and factors contributing to, species declines species trend* (25 yr unless stated)

Corn bunting -84% Corn bunting decline was caused by intensification of farming, particularly the move to autumn-sown cereals, the loss of weedy over-winter stubble, earlier harvesting of cereal and grass crops, and the indirect effects of pesticides. Curlew -31% Changes in vegetation condition, habitat management and predator abundance seem to be behind the decline. Hen harrier 30% The illegal killing of hen harriers is the main factor preventing this species from re-populating large areas of upland England (16yr) and Scotland currently managed as driven grouse moors. House sparrow -56% High levels of chick starvation found by research studies in Leicester suggested that a lack of invertebrates might be limiting reproductive success in urban areas. In rural areas, populations have declined because of reduced grain availability in winter. Lapwing -53% Lapwing declines are related to historic drainage of wetlands, farming methods including loss of spring-sown cereals, and possibly an increase in abundance of ground predators at a local scale. Willow tit -82% Declines for these woodland species, as above, are thought to be linked to changes in woodland structure brought about by Lesser-spotted -85% changes in woodland management. woodpecker Wildlife and the natural world is good for us; we need it as much Redshank -45% The main problem has been loss and degradation of habitat, such as lowland wet grassland and saltmarsh. An increase in as it needs us. ground predators may have had an effect at a local scale. Major threats include plans for development on important estuarine wintering sites. Ring ouzel -58% Ring ouzel population and range decline is thought to be due to changes in upland management. Declines are also possibly (9yr) related to climate change, both on the breeding grounds and the wintering grounds in North Africa. Turtle dove -82% Likely factors include reduction in food availability due to the indirect effects of pesticides. Factors outside the UK may include shooting on migration and droughts in the Sahel. Twite -53% The causes of twite decline in England are related to loss of suitable habitats, particularly upland hay meadows as breeding (12yr) habitat and saltmarsh as wintering habitat. Yellow wagtail -70% Yellow wagtail declines are probably caused by the intensification of arable and pastoral farming in the lowlands, and loss of hay meadows in upland regions. Factors along the migration routes and in the wintering areas may also be having an effect.

*Population trend data taken from the Eaton, M.A. et al (2009) Birds of Conservation Concern; The population status of birds in the United Kingdom, Channel Islands and Isle of Man; British Birds 102, pp 296-341.

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G d r e d o o S r n o f i h u u t E h n n e u e h o n F a e T f s o r i d s R s f w o C m r d t T A S 7 2 The UK government has committed to a new European target of halting biodiversity loss and ecosystem services degradation and restoring them in the EU, in so far as feasible, by 2020. In order to halt the loss of threatened species, targeted recovery measures will always be essential. If we lose species now, it will cost a great deal more to replace them in the future – if indeed we ever can.

In 2001 at a Summit in Gothenburg, the Framework, and the potential for management will provide their EU Heads of State agreed a target of developing similar frameworks in Scotland conservation requirements. This will not, halting biodiversity loss by 2010. The UK, and Northern Ireland. We must build on the in the grand scheme of things, require in common with governments across outcomes of key pieces of work such as large amounts of money, but it will deliver Europe, failed to meet this target. A new the Lawton review on restoring a coherent invaluable returns. If we lose species now, European target has been set to halt the ecological network, and the The Economics it will cost a great deal more to replace loss of biodiversity and the degradation of of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB) them in the future if indeed, it is even ecosystem services in the EU by 2020, report. Our challenge will be to turn these possible to do so. and restoring them, in so far as feasible, opportunities into concrete commitments while stepping up the EU contribution to and tangible action to restore biodiversity. This document sets out the RSPB’s averting global biodiversity loss. This is a approach to choosing the species we significant new commitment to rebalance The RSPB, and many others, believe we need to help first and fastest, and how we our relationship with nature and has been have a moral and practical imperative to intend to make a difference for them. warmly welcomed across the halt biodiversity loss. The economic Alone we are unable to meet all the conservation world. In order to realise recession provides a stark warning of the conservation needs of all declining these goals, we need reinvigorated dangers of poorly regulated markets. Yet species, and we want our conservation political and NGO leadership, clarity about ahead is an even greater example of efforts to complement and enhance those our aims, initiative from decision-makers, market failure: a degraded environment on of others. To do this, we want to work and a clear roadmap from governments the brink of climate catastrophe. The UK with the full range of partners, from about how they plan to meet the new and devolved governments must address individuals to governments, to deliver the target. The Birds and Habitats Directives this with immediacy, prevent further best outcomes for conservation. If we provide a robust and integrated framework damage to the environment, and restore want to be a nation that has a healthy for delivery of species conservation, but functioning ecosystems and robust countryside, rich in biodiversity, where they need to be fully implemented. species populations. Otherwise, the public public funds secure public goods, that is goods that the environment supplies, from sustainable, and inspires those who live in There are crucial opportunities to renew which we all benefit, will become it and those who visit each year, then we the process of environmental restoration degraded and potentially lost. must safeguard our species. offered by the UK Government’s Natural Environment White Paper for England, the Targeted recovery measures will always be Welsh Assembly Government plans to essential for the most threatened species. produce a Natural Environment However, for many species, positive land

29 SAFEGUARDING SPECIES – A STRATEGY FOR SPECIES RECOVERY