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Would you like to know more about the birds on your farm?
6 February 2012
Stephanie Sim
Public Relations Adviser
E-mail: stephanie.sim@rspb.org.uk
The RSPB is making it easier for farmers to get to know the diversity of wildlife on their land. For busy farmers who enjoy the birds in their fields and hedgerows, but don’t have the time to learn more about them, an RSPB volunteer can conduct a bird survey for free.
Recognising the vital role farmers play as guardians of our countryside, the RSPB runs the Volunteer & Farmer Alliance (V&FA) scheme, a free, confidential bird survey. There is no obligation to make any changes afterwards.
“We’re hoping farmers across Northern Ireland will sign up,” says Patsy Harbinson, RSPB. “Last year over 60 did. A volunteer is then matched with the farm and when the surveys are completed, farmers get a laminated map of their farm, showing what birds there are on the land, their location, and advice on how to best look after them.”
A volunteer bird surveyor will carry out three to four surveys on the farm between April and July. Visits usually take three to four hours, depending on acreage and terrain.
“Thanks to help from EU LIFE+ funding and the involvement of farmers and volunteers, we are getting a good idea about the birds that inhabit the Northern Irish countryside, the farm habitats they prefer and the land management practices that help them survive,” Patsy explains.
As farming systems, landscapes and habitats vary greatly, so do the types of birds found on farms in different areas.
The average number of bird species noted per farm in 2011 was 30. The largest number recorded on a single farm was 50. Farms here support two key farmland bird species groups, both of which depend on farmland for their survival.
Firstly, there are the seedeaters such as yellowhammer, linnet, tree sparrow and reed bunting. The second group is the breeding waders, which have seen serious declines, such as lapwing, curlew and snipe.
If a farmer does have any of these birds on their land, it is evidence of wildlife-friendly farm management at work. The RSPB can provide information on how to help these key species.
“Last year we helped farmers across Northern Ireland discover the amazing wildlife their land can support. We’re looking forward to seeing what 2012 brings.” Patsy adds: “If you or someone you know would love to learn about the birds on your farm, contact us at once. We’re expecting great interest, so get in touch soon to avoid disappointment.”
Contact: Patsy Harbinson at the RSPB NI Headquarters. Email: patsy.harbinson@rspb.org.uk Phone: 028 9049 1547. The RSPB is also always on the lookout for volunteers who jump at any opportunity to get out and survey wildlife. The same contact details apply.