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UK wild bird populations fall to all-time low

New data shows average wild bird populations have plummeted - some by as much as 90 per cent.
Blue Tit Bird sitting in leaves
Bird populations are falling due to habitat destruction and pesticides

A sobering new Wild Bird Populations report shows that breeding birds have declined by 19% since 1970.

The report, compiled by leading nature conservation bodies for the government, shows farmland birds - such as turtle doves and tree sparrows - have been particularly badly hit with a 63% reduction in numbers since the 70s. Swifts - a common sight and sound in early summer - have also declined by 25% in five years.

Bird populations declined more sharply in the 80s and 90s, driven by habitat destruction, changes in farming practices and increased pesticide use. But the decrease, albeit slower, is continuing with populations dipping by 12% since 2020.

From November to March you can feed birds in your garden to support them through winter: read our advice for what to dish up or plant some berry-rich shrubs.