Woodlark  (Lullula arborea)

Between 1968-72 and 1988-91 the breeding range of this species in the UK decreased by a huge 62%. The woodlark disappeared from Cornwall in the 1980s and ceased to breed in Wales in 1981. In 1986 the population was estimated to be just 250 pairs. The reasons for the decline include the huge decrease in the extent of England's lowland heathland (4). Since the 1950s, 40% of this habitat has been lost (4) due to conversion to agriculture and forestry (3). Pressure from roads and housing developments continues. Even where suitable habitat remains, if it is not managed appropriately it will not be inhabited by woodlarks. Grazing is essential in providing the mosaic of bare ground or short vegetation needed for feeding, and tussocky vegetation with bare patches needed for nesting by the woodlark. The rabbit population underwent a massive decline following the introduction of myxomatosis in the 1950s (4), this resulted in a reduction in woodlark numbers due to the grass growing too long (2). The UK population had increased to 620 pairs by 1993, and a further increase up to 1500 pairs had occurred by 1997 (BTO). The woodlark has returned to areas from which it had been absent for more than 25 years (2), although it is still absent from parts of its former range in Wales and south-west England.This bird is at the northern extreme of its range in Britain, and exceptionally cold winters can take a toll on populations (3).

Woodlarks currently occur on a number of heathland nature reserves, including RSPB reserves, where its needs can be met through management. Heathland management encouraged by agri-environment schemes such as Countryside Stewardship and the Breckland Environmentally Sensitive Area (ESA) have benefited the species (4)

The woodlark is a priority species under the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP); the species Action Plan aims to increase the range and numbers of the woodlark, including the recolonisation of Wales and south-west England by 2008 (4). Main areas of work include protecting existing lowland heathland and suitable grassland habitats, creating new areas of habitat, and promoting sympathetic forestry management practices and extensive agricultural systems in the wider countryside (2). It is likely that any actions aimed at helping the woodlark will also benefit the nightjar, Caprimulgus europaeus (4).