A multifunctional approach to bird conservation on farmland: a ten-year appraisal.

Abstract

Economic viability of farming is increasingly threatened following CAP reform and changes in the world market. Current rural development policy calls for economically, environmentally and socially sustainable use of natural resources in rural areas, while Foot and Mouth Disease has highlighted the economic importance of recreational activities (tourism) to rural communities. Environmental objectives include the reversal of bird population declines. Integration of game management for shooting into a farm business at Loddington (Leicestershire) over a ten-year period has resulted in substantial increases in breeding numbers of some nationally declining (including Biodiversity Action Plan) bird species. The implications for recreational use of wildlife on farmland are discussed.