Wild bird numbers up in UK

A major annual survey of birds in the UK has found that many species under threat in the past are showing signs of making significant recoveries. The study finds that populations in 2004 were around 10% higher than they were ten years ago. The Buzzard, Kingfisher and Perigrine Falcon are among the species experiencing recoveries.
"I am pleased to see that a long-term decline in some species has stabilised and improved in recent years, particularly among some of the most threatened, but there is still cause for concern - for example, in the case of Grey Partridge, Turtle Dove and Willow Tit,” said Elliot Morley, Environment Minister.
Although the causes of the increases are not fully determined, it is thought that warmer winters and environmentally-friendly farming practices may be contributing.
"The exact reasons for changes in various populations are largely unknown and often very complex. We have several research projects on the go, but they may not provide easy or short-term answers. Bird populations are a good gauge of the general state of our wildlife and countryside. This government is committed to supporting and working with farmers and others to restore and enhance the habitats and conditions necessary for our precious birds to survive and thrive," added Morley.
Mark Avery, RSPB Director of Conservation added; "The wild bird indicator is really showing its worth and will become increasingly important as we measure progress towards the government's target of halting the loss of biodiversity by 2010."