A number of bird species have long been associated with
human settlement. House sparrows often thrive around and depend upon human
activity, and house martins are strongly dependent on towns and buildings
to provide suitable nest sites. Starlings, conspicuous in their noisy
roosts, also exploit opportunities in suburban gardens and city centres.
Some of these birds are thriving in the urban and
suburban environment. Numbers of blue tits and great tits for example are
increasing, making the most of bird feeders, nest boxes and the warmer
winters. Blackbirds and song thrushes, both a familiar garden sight, are
not so fortunate. Song thrushes in particular have suffered such a
population decline as to qualify for a "red list" that
highlights species of concern. Feeding on invertebrates, these birds have
been affected by the use of garden pesticides - especially slug and snail
pellets. Starlings have been placed on the "amber" list of
species due to a 58% decline in the last 30 years. Even the common house
sparrow is in decline in urban areas.
On the other hand, more unusual and endangered birds are
now finding their way into our cities and towns. The Peregrine falcon,
whose numbers suffered from persecution and the effects of organochloride
insecticides during the last century, have now nested in tall inner city
buildings in Birmingham. The black redstart, formerly a rare summer
migrant now nests regularly in factory yards, sidings and power stations.
Even the bittern (one of Britain’s most endangered breeding birds) has
been known to stop over in urban ponds and small areas of reedbed.
There are many ways we can all help to support numbers
of urban bird populations. Ensuring there are nesting opportunities and
access to roof space on existing and new developments has been identified
as one strategy by the RSPB. Gardening for wildlife can make a valuable
contribution not just for birds, but to support a whole range of native
flora and fauna (see Jason Adams’ article). Adopting a new way of
evaluating and managing our green spaces must also now be on the agenda.
Judith Baker
