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More than one million of what was once a common songbird have disappeared from gardens, reports
WITH their distinctive, colourful plumes, they were once a common sight on bird tables where they regularly congregated for food.
But more than one million greenfinches have been lost in Britain over the last 15 years, due to a disease that affects the birds’ ability to feed properly, according to a report.
The latest Birdtrends report, published by the British Trust for Ornithology, reveals the colourful songbird could be put on the UK’S Red List of conservation concern due to its dramatic decline, including in Scotland.
A species qualifies for the Red List if there has been a population decline of at least 50 per cent over 25 years.
The report reveals the greenfinch has fallen by up to 65% across the UK in that period, and up to 75% in Scotland.
Currently on the Green List, its sharp downturn in fortunes could see the species upgraded and rated as “endangered” when periodic revisions are published later this year.
The decline of the greenfinch has been directly linked to the emergence in 2005 of trichomonosis, a parasiteinduced disease that affects the upper digestive tract.
Lower survival rates have been the strongest contributor to the species’ annual population change, while minor decreases in clutch and brood sizes have also been observed.
Ben Darvill, development and engagement manager in Scotland for the British Trust for Ornithology, said: “The greenfinch used to be a familiar garden and woodland bird for many people, but there is a whole generation growing up now for whom they are a rarity.
“Trichomonosis came in a wave throughout the country. It started off in the south of England and eventually hit Scotland, and has certainly taken its toll.”
The disease is spread between birds through particles of food. Hygiene precautions are recommended in gardens where food and water are provided, and stopping feeding if birds with the disease are observed, although the report adds: “The rate of decline has not yet slowed down and it is unclear whether improved garden hygiene will halt the decline.”
It is thought some birds may be resistant to trichomonosis, however, and the report suggests actions and policies aimed at other species, such as improving breeding habitats and food availability during the breeding season, could also help enable greenfinch numbers to recover in the future.
The annual Birdtrends report provides valuable information on the changing status of the UK’S bird populations.
It covers 121 species based on data gathered by thousands of volunteers who contribute to surveys. Successes highlighted this year include the great spotted woodpecker, which has increased by 387% in the last 50 years thanks in part to more people providing bird feeders in their gardens, and the song thrush, which could be removed from the highest category of conservation concern after its population increased by 15%.
Dr Rob Robinson, the report’s lead author, said: “The annual data gathered by our volunteer recorders enable us to keep a close eye on a wide array of our bird species, highlighting when they are in trouble and providing the evidence needed to show whether conservation action has turned things around.
“The massive volunteer effort harnessed through a wide range of schemes is critical to conservation, identifying problems, helping to diagnose causes, and assessing the solutions.”
Meanwhile, London’s skylark population is under threat due to increased numbers of dogs and park walkers during coronavirus lockdowns, conservationists warned.
The popular bird breeds around various parklands but is in danger of being wiped from the capital because of a huge increase in the number of dogs and pedestrians not sticking to the paths.
Bosses at the Royal Parks, which manage eight in London, are worried the skylark could be lost if the birds’ nests are trampled on or disturbed by dogs not being kept on leads.
Simon Richards, park manager at Richmond Park, said: “We welcome everyone to enjoy the natural environment, but increased footfall and disturbance to the environment can have a detrimental impact on wildlife.”
There is a whole generation growing up now for whom they are a rarity