- Reduction in arable crops and left winter stubble – greatly reduces food availability in the winter months.
- Development pressures.
- Improvement of grassland – decline in wildflower rich fields and insect food source.
- Wet, cool weather in the breeding season – results in poor breeding success.
- Disturbance – walkers, visitors during breeding season.
Cirl Bunting
In the 1930’s cirl buntings were widespread, found across most of
southern England and parts of Wales. Cirl buntings started to decline
as farming became more intensive and traditional mixed farmland was
lost. By 1989 the range had dramatically contracted to South Devon
with only 118 pairs left (UK Biodiversity Action Plan). Cirl bunting
numbers are now recovering, through the work of the RSPB, farmers and
partners. The numbers recorded in the last 2003 survey showed 697 pairs.
Torbay currently has approximately 60 pairs, which is 8.5% of the UK population. Its current range in Torbay is concentrated around Maidencombe, Cockington, Elberry and Brixham.
Main Objectives & Key Actions:
1 Maintain/increase population numbers in Torbay.
2 Maintain/increase geographical spread and reduce fragmentation.
3 Maintain/increase the favourable
management of sites for the cirl bunting.
4 Improve knowledge of the cirl bunting population and range.
5 Raise awareness with the public
and land managers of the importance of the cirl bunting as an indicator of
the health of the farmed environment.
Current threats to this species:
