Tree sparrow  (Passer montanus)

Although the reasons for the decline of the tree sparrow are not fully known, it has coincided with severe declines in many other farmland bird species (6). The decline is highly likely to be due to changes in agricultural practices such as the switch to autumn sown rather than spring sown crops which results in a reduction of winter stubble fields, valuable sources of food for these species. The use of herbicides and pesticides may also have an impact on the food supply. Availability of nesting sites may also be causing problems for the tree sparrow. In the 1970s and 80s many large elms were lost as a result of Dutch elm disease, removing a large number of nesting sites from the landscape (6).

In a number of areas, nest box schemes have been started to provide the tree sparrow with suitable nesting sites. Agri-environment schemes such as the new Arable Stewardship Scheme encourage the retention of winter stubble fields and other measures that should benefit the species. The tree sparrow is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, the plan aims to halt or reverse the decline by 2003 and promote a sustained recovery of the species (6).