Picket and Clanger Wood SSSI Breeding Bird Survey 2017.
Abstract
This August 2024 issue presents a comprehensive analysis of the 2017 breeding bird survey conducted in Picket and Clanger Wood SSSI, revealing a notable decline in the woodland breeding bird assemblage. Using the Common Bird Census methodology, the survey confirmed a score of 13, indicating a more than 25% reduction from the baseline score of 33 established at the site's notification. This decline places the woodland breeding bird assemblage feature in an unfavourable condition. The report explores potential reasons for this decline, including changes in habitat and management practices, as well as national declines in certain species. Despite these declines, the survey noted strong populations of several non-scoring species such as wren, robin, blackbird, blue tit, coal tit, and great tit, along with thriving populations of chiffchaff, blackcap, nuthatch, and goldcrest. The discussion highlights the complex interplay between on-site management and off-site factors, such as migratory hazards and climate change, in influencing species trends. Recommendations for management strategies to benefit the bird population are also provided.