2022

That hedges are good for wildlife & the character of our countryside is already well recognised. However, few appreciate that their linear, three-dimensional structure also means they can capture carbon at twice the rate of woodland.

The plight of waders breeding in the UK is well known. All of our familiar species are in serious decline and we hear frequent warnings about local extinctions for some of them. Well known causes of decline are a loss of quality habitat due to changes in land use and intensified agricultural practices, and we are seeing increased losses of wader nests to a variety of predators.

Environmental organisations are calling for more land designations in their first annual progress report on the Government’s commitment to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030. However, designations in themselves will not achieve what they seek - the restoration of biodiversity. 

Adam Vaughan’s recent article Shooting curbs to save endangered woodcock, includes inaccuracies which make it misleading. The woodcock is neither rare nor endangered.

We’re encouraged to read that government believes “boosting food production and strengthening resilience and sustainability come alongside, not instead of, protecting and enhancing our natural environment”.

Recent isolated cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in released pheasants highlights the importance of good biosecurity and vigilance amongst all those involved in game management. 

As a research-led organisation with expertise in gamebird management and biodiversity monitoring, the GWCT has previously reviewed the evidence relating to the relationship between pheasant releasing and reptile numbers alongside our wider work on the potential impacts of gamebird releasing on the environment. 

The RSPB’s position (‘Calls to ban gamebird release to avoid ‘catastrophic’ avian flu outbreak’, 10.02.2022) is not based on scientific evidence and the tone of Jeff Knott’s comments is alarmist.