The status of breeding Woodlarks Lullula arborea in Britain in 2006

Capsule There have been marked increases (88%) in the breeding population and breeding range (46%) of Woodlarks in Britain between 1997 and 2006. Aims To provide an accurate assessment of the population and distribution of Woodlarks in Britain and how these have changed since a survey conducted in 1997. Methods Survey coverage included 'core' 1 km squares (known occupancy in 1997) and a stratified random sample, based on suitable habitat and soil type. Results A population estimate of 3064 territories was obtained, giving an increase of 88% since 1997, while the range of occupied 10 km squares had increased by 46%. The majority of territories were associated with two main habitat types; heathland (66.7%) and forestry plantation (32.4%), and farmland in the southwest (13.4%). Sandy soils held the majority of territories (80.3%). Conclusion In the UK, the Woodlark is a species of high to moderate conservation concern subject to a national Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP). This survey demonstrated that the population has increased to meet the BAP targets set in 1996 for population size and range expansions in England, and is on schedule to meet targets in Wales. The species has responded to conservation restoration projects and is highly dependent on forest management.