RSPB raise fears corncrake could be driven to extinction in Scotland

● Annual count records lowest number of calling males since 2003

A rare breeding birds could become extinct in Scotland without further action to save the species, according to the RSPB.

The shy and elusive corncrake, known for its rasping call, was once widespread but habitat loss and changes in farming methods meant the species was almost wiped out.

The bird was slowly recovering from a low of fewer than 500 calling males in the 1990s, but last year’s annual count recorded just 866 – the lowest number since 2003.

Launching this year’s annual corncrake survey yesterday, RSPB Scotland warned that “the future of the species is far from assured”.

The conservation organisation also called for clarity on the future of rural support from the Scottish Government, and a firm commitment to continue to support High Nature Value (HNV) farming in future to stop further declines.

Chris Bailey of RSPB Scotland said: “The crex crex call of the corncrake is an incredible sound, but sadly one that few people experience nowadays.

“We cannot let all the hard work that has been put in by all sides over the last 25 years be undone and go to waste.

“While RSPB Scotland recognises the funding challenges,

0 Corncrakes are a summer migrant to Scotland, flying from central and southern Africa to breed we need Scottish Government to articulate a long-term vision for rural support, and commit to a clear plan for how species and habitats that are dependent on appropriate land management systems will be safeguarded.”

Corncrakes are a summer migrant to Scotland, flying from central and southern Africa to breed. Changes in UK agricultural practices through the 20th century led to a massive reduction their range and numbers. By the early 1990s corncrakes were confined to a few isolated pockets in Scotland, mostly on islands and the north west coast on farms and crofts. Agri-environment schemes were introduced to create corncrake friendly conditions, including delaying mowing dates and creating corridors of vegetation for the birds and their chicks. The population reached a high of 1,289 calling males in 2014, but numbers have since fallen.