A new design for the arable landscape and its use by farmland passerines.

Abstract

Management of wild gamebirds involves the development of habitat diversity within arable landscapes. Such a management system has been adopted at Loddington (Leicestershire) since 1993 and includes crop mixtures designed specifically for wildlife. We describe research into use of managed habitats by two passerine species (Skylark Alaluda arvensis and Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella) for foraging. Our results reveal both subtle and substantial differences in the way species utilise habitats. Landscape diversity associated with the game management system is likely to benefit other passerines, according to the requirements of each species. Current agri-environment schemes should also encourage such diversity if conservation objectives are to be met.