Blogs

The latest Defra wild bird statistics show that the UK farmland bird index has declined by 63% since 1970, with further declines recorded in recent years. Against that backdrop, the long-term trends at Allerton provide a striking contrast. 

Read our response to The Guardian's recent article: 'UK bird populations fall to lowest level on record'.

The most recent release of Defra’s Wild Bird statistics this week shows that long-term declines in almost all habitats dating back to at least the 1970s continues, with the most significant downward trend impacting farmland birds. However, these generalised declines are not universal, and on farms across the country localised success stories are increasingly common.

With the November 1st deadline for Defra’s Call for Evidence on Gamebird Release, Shooting and Welfare during Rearing in England quickly approaching, we have put together a helpful template to make it as easy as possible for supporters to respond. 

The day spent on the recent SFI 2026 application window was almost certainly the most stressful, frustrating and ultimately devasting I have ever worked. The disappointment when I told my colleagues, directors and trustees that we didn’t get in was heartbreaking. 

The last two drilling seasons have been pretty easy, but this year a lot of seed isn't going into moist ground so we're waiting on rain. Seed can wait a couple of weeks, but if it sits in the ground too long it’s more vulnerable to slugs and the amount drilled may prove insufficient to ensure adequate plant count. 

This year, I attended my first partridge count. As a researcher myself, but having since moved into communicating our science, I was hungry for any experience that made me feel like I was out in the field again. 

As Defra gathers evidence on the impacts of gamebird rearing, release and shooting in England, it is essential that the discussion is informed by real-world examples from working landscapes.

GWCT director of policy and the Allerton Project research Dr Alastair Leake has received the Farmer’s Weekly Lifetime Achievement Award for his work over 25 years developing practical solutions combining productive farming with improved environmental outcomes and disseminating findings through advisory and educational activities.

At Warehouse Wines, we believe great wine is about more than what's in the bottle. It's about the people who make it, the places it comes from and the moments we enjoy it with friends and family.