1 in 10 Scots species at risk of extinction

SCOTLAND’S wildlife is facing a battle for survival, with almost half of all species suffering a decline in numbers and just over one-tenth of them facing extinction.

Across the country, average numbers of all the animals and birds that were surveyed for a major report have fallen by nearly a quarter.

Among the worst casualties are the Scottish wildcat, the capercaillie and the common rabbit. Habitation loss, pollution, overfishing and the ongoing effects of climate change are just some of the factors cited for the shocking decline.

The RSPB’s State of Nature Scotland report is the largest study of its kind ever carried out, and included information from 70 wildlife organisations and government agencies to present the ‘clearest picture to date of the status of species’.

It shows that, since recording began, 49 per cent of Scottish species have decreased and 62 per cent have shown a ‘strong change’.

Worryingly, of 6,413 species assessed in Scotland, 11 per cent are threatened with extinction.

Paul Walton, the report’s lead author, said: ‘This confirms that the erosion and loss of nature in Scotland continues. But it also highlights how much we still have to lose, and some of the incredible work under way to hold on to it.

‘Scotland is uniquely placed to set a global example in responding to the twin climate and ecological crises.

‘We must critically see a step change in how we resource the conservation of all our biodiversity.’

Birds numbers were said to be ‘broadly stable’ on average but some, including wading birds the curlew and dotterel, have seen a marked decline.

Numbers of some seabirds have fallen dramatically, with Arctic skua dropping 77 per cent and the population of kittiwakes, found predominately on the East Coast, falling by 72 per cent.

Of the nine species of mammal that have been assessed since 1998, abundance has declined by 9 per cent, with rabbits classed as seeing a ‘strong decrease’ due to a surge in myxomatosis and rabbit haemorrhagic disease.

But the Scottish wildcat is classed as most at risk following a declaration last year that the species was functionally extinct.

Anne McCall, director of RSPB Scotland, said ‘nature is still being lost at a deeply concerning rate’. She said: ‘We need ambitious legislation, with binding targets backed by realistic resources, to not only halt nature’s decline but secure its recovery – and we need it now.’

Francesca Osowska, chief executive of Scottish Natural Heritage, said the decrease of some species could be reversed.

She added: ‘We are focusing on reversing ecosystem loss and fragmentation to restore Scotland’s most threatened habitats – peatlands, rivers, and woodlands – and help our most at-risk species.

‘We are ready to deliver the transformational change needed to bring a nature-rich future for Scotland.’

‘Being lost at a deeply concerning rate’