A detailed study of the bird population at the National Trust’s Wicken Fen National Nature Reserve has been undertaken by the Wicken Fen Bird Ringing Group, who celebrate their 40th anniversary this year.
In the 40 years, over 82,000 birds have been rung giving a valuable insight into the fortunes of the various bird species found at Wicken Fen. Figures reveal notable increases in the population of Sparrow Hawk, Collared Dove, Green Woodpecker, Great Spotted Woodpecker, Whitethroat, Blackcap, Chiffchaff, Chaffinch and Goldfinch.
Unfortunately the study reveals a dramatic decline in a number of species particularly the tree sparrow, with 170 ringed in 1973 and only 1 in 2007. Other species to suffer a notable decline in numbers are the Dunnock, Song Thrush, Grasshopper Warbler, Spotted Flycatcher, Willow Tit, Linnet, Lesser Redpoll and Bullfinch. The decline of these birds at Wicken Fen reflects their reduction in populations across Britain in the past few decades.
Commenting of the results of the 40 year survey, Dr Stuart Warrington, National Trust Conservation Advisor said:
'This long-running study of birds at Wicken Fen has made a huge contribution to bird conservation. It has helped us to better understand bird populations both at Wicken Fen and in the wider countryside.'
Ringing is undertaken at three sites around Wicken Fen using fine mesh nets which are designed to 'pocket' the birds gently without injury. The birds have a small lightweight ring put around one leg, which has a unique identification number. When the bird is caught again, either at Wicken or elsewhere, you can learn about the bird’s age, condition and dispersal.
In its 40th year the Wicken Fen Bird Ringing Group reached a further milestone ringing its 100th bird species, young herons on the Wicken Mere. The total number of bird species ever recorded at Wicken Fen is currently 235, with on average two or three new species being added each year.
Speaking on the vital importance of the Wicken Fen Vision to the survival of many of the declining species Dr Warrington said:
'It has been very encouraging to see threatened birds such as Marsh Harrier, Hen Harrier and Barn Owls foraging over the restored Vision land. The wet meadows are proving to be especially valuable for flocks of Lapwings, Gadwall, Shoveler, Golden Plover and Linnet.'
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