Wet winter is taking its toll on our birdlife says RSPB
Lapwing
TORRENTIAL rain and flooded fields are effecting breeding birds says conservation body the RSPB.
On some affected sites and reserves , endangered species on the conservation ‘red-list’ have failed to produce any chicks entirely.
But, the charity also says there is evidence to show that some wildlife is already adapting to a changing climate, aided by conservation work.
2012 was a year of extreme weather in the UK starting with a very dry winter - 50 per cent less rain than expected fell in March - that led to drought fears. However, this was followed by 75 per cent more rainfall in April than average and the wettest June on record.
Martin Harper, RSPB Conservation Director, said: nests and chicks have being washed away by the flood waters. Many parts of the country were at their wettest during the breeding season, which meant fewer chicks fledged even from breeding sites that are vital for some of our most threatened birds.
“The last thing these struggling species need are further pressures from erratic and extreme weather.”
The number of Nightjars has declined as a direct result of the weather and Lapwings, common the Rye area, are struggling to breed in the conditions.
Martin Harper said: ““This is a stark reminder as to why, if we want to protect wildlife in this country. We need to adapt and do everything possible to help wildlife adapt too.”
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Weather for St Leonards-on-Sea
Tuesday 21 May 2013
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 8 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: North
Tomorrow
Cloudy
Temperature: 4 C to 16 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: West
