A decision has just been made by the Brazilian Congress to approve a Forestry Bill that will open the doors to loggers and farmers to increasingly decimate, utterly, sections of the Amazonian rainforest.
On this occasion , there is a one stop process which can arrest this catastrophe. The Bill requires the approval of the President! She can, if she so wishes, veto the Bill and ensure its rejection. Thankfully, there may well be circumstances which might assist this process. They are unashamedly political in content, but justified in outcome!
In a few weeks President Dilma will host a world summit meeting on the environment. It would surely be illogical and ill-advised to front such an important gathering after having just sanctioned the destruction of what, environmentally, is viewed as a "Wonder of the World" as opposed to being seen as a convenient and easily available economic resource. Thankfully, it is alledged 79% of Brazilians feel the proposals within the Bill are wrong but, clearly, elected representatives are ignoring this body of opinion.
Now, I admit I lobby, actively, on a variety of wildlife and environment issues and can ,quite rightly, be accused of having an "already converted " view. I fully accept that and declare my support for the current petition, but please take a look at the reportage below in order to gain a balanced view.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-latin-america-17851237
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/8358094.stm
http://wwf.panda.org./?uNewsID=2000698
Over the period 2004-2011 Brazil has seen a 78% decline in its deforestation rate due to monitoring, world opinion, strong enforcement and a world acclaimed forestry law. Much of this is now being ignored, indeed, it virtually endorses the devastation of the rainforest by loggers in previous times.Always remember this area "produces" 20% of our world's oxygen, as well as helping to regulate the effects of climate change.
As ever in this modern world, dirty politics are at play. Dilma was assisted in getting elected by the agricultural lobby, which is now wanting the Brazilian rainforest to be opened up for economic exploitation. Admittedly Brazil has many people existing in poverty, but studies have shown cutting down forests will not benefit a majority of people. As is so usual, pressure focussed on commercial gain is the underlying impetus behind this initiative.
The focus of this Bill is wrong, ill advised and will contribute little to Brazil's problems.It needs to be halted!! In this context, would you agree to a family heirloom being destroyed? Of course not, then may I urge that you don't stand by an allow a "World Heirloom" to be desecrated!
Please sign the petition below and halt this madness!! Time is of the essence.
http://www.avaaz.org/en/veto_dilma_global/7vl
I have! You must...surely!
Personal birding at home and abroad, plus other natural history and conservation involvements.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
The final curtain?
News that, over the Bank Holiday weekend, no sightings of Hen Harrier have arisen from the Forest of Bowland, Lancashire, their former English stronghold, suggests the species during this season may now have been lost as a breeding bird. Whether or not this also means the species might have been lost totally in England appears increasingly likely. This is an absolute travesty about which no public comment from appropriate authorities has yet been made, but whose reactions and intended remedies will be intensely anticipated.
The extent to which this will be seen as a victory by those responsible for the species' demise will forever be a subjective assessment as, clearly, to celebrate the situation is to declare guilt by association or , at least, publicly countenance the laws of the land being broken. Undoubtedly there will be some within the game management fraternity who will see the situation as an incentive to try and reduce the population level still further regardless of its geographical origin. Such would appear to be the major weakness contained within the proceedings being presided over by the Environment Council and the proposal to initiate a captive breeding/release programme. Do participants in that debate seriously feel that, if any of the released individuals eventually transgress on to managed uplands they will be treated with tolerance? What a potential waste of money and effort! I don't condemn the sincerity associated with the desire to improve the situation, but until the law is accepted and adhered to, any such a proposal will meet with failure. The law needs to be applied robustly and the Government soundly condemn those whose intent it is to deplete our natural heritage. From now on it should be routine practice, if anyone is found guilty of an offence against Hen Harriers , for the penalty to be raised significantly, not just as a consequence of them contravening the provisions within the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 ( as amended ), but for undermining the potential of a key species, illegally reduced previously, that might now contribute to its reinstatement.
Sadly , at a time when a concerted front needs to be pursued and apparent, there are those who would continue to pursue the personalised blame game. Whilst I have no reservations about criticising, positively, apparent weaknesses within given approaches and policies by constituent bodies, the incessant personalised condemnation, largely built on assumptions and inaccuracy, is wasteful and misleading. An expectation of then being considered an equal participant in a failed partnership beggars belief. As an example,the recent publicity on the Web, given to what anyone would easily discern as a piece of mischievous fiction relating to the Eagle Owls and raptors in Bowland, is contrived controversy at its best. At its worst it is sheer dysfunctional delusion aimed at promoting self-serving positioning, and will have achieved nothing now it has backfired. But what a waste!
There is no place, in an atmosphere of increasing pressure against conservation, for diversionary actions aimed at self-promotion and the personal castigation of others. We will only win through by a strong and
concerted effort so that, numerically, we are seen to be a collectively strong voice for action that can set differences aside and act in a mature and informed fashion. Sadly some are incapable, or unwilling to so do and, in my book, should simply be ignored. All I would point to is what has been achieved by an obviously concerted action against harriers to prove what can be achieved!!
One wonders whether the extent to which this lack of cohesion, coupled with complacency amongst many followers of our hobby, is the main component in the failure of the Vicarious Liability E-petition? As at 1800 hours today it stands at 8937 signatures! This pathetic level of signatures is being blamed by some on the RSPB, whose assembled membership could obviously have made a significant numerical difference. However, I wonder whether the timing, intention , wording of the petition and promotion strategy was ever communicated to RSPB last November when the petition was raised, never mind discussed with them beforehand? Such an omission could be blamed as being a major part of the abject failure of the initiative, so let's get things in perspective. I hope I'm wrong, but offer the suggestion as an example of something about which , increasingly, we need to confer and co-operate to a greater extent than ever previously!
On another front, the anticipated results from the review of our wildlife legislation commissioned by DEFRA is due quite soon. Whether it will include elements that will address raptor persecution is anybody's guess, it might even consider the subject of vicarious liability and suggest the initiative taken by the Scottish Parliament is followed. Who knows?.
Clearly we are on the cusp of change in a variety of respects. Looking ahead already to the future, it is imperative everyone works towards common objectives, whatever the problems of the past. The challenge of reversing the current situation with harriers should not be underestimated, and certainly not in exchange for pursuing self-inflated agendas. There can only be one objective........that of ensuring the retention of the English harrier breeding population. The birds come first in my book; I'm not interested in bruised egos or any assumed shortcomings of others. In my view, to not be a part of a collective effort aimed at improvement is to be a contributor to its potential failure.
The extent to which this will be seen as a victory by those responsible for the species' demise will forever be a subjective assessment as, clearly, to celebrate the situation is to declare guilt by association or , at least, publicly countenance the laws of the land being broken. Undoubtedly there will be some within the game management fraternity who will see the situation as an incentive to try and reduce the population level still further regardless of its geographical origin. Such would appear to be the major weakness contained within the proceedings being presided over by the Environment Council and the proposal to initiate a captive breeding/release programme. Do participants in that debate seriously feel that, if any of the released individuals eventually transgress on to managed uplands they will be treated with tolerance? What a potential waste of money and effort! I don't condemn the sincerity associated with the desire to improve the situation, but until the law is accepted and adhered to, any such a proposal will meet with failure. The law needs to be applied robustly and the Government soundly condemn those whose intent it is to deplete our natural heritage. From now on it should be routine practice, if anyone is found guilty of an offence against Hen Harriers , for the penalty to be raised significantly, not just as a consequence of them contravening the provisions within the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 ( as amended ), but for undermining the potential of a key species, illegally reduced previously, that might now contribute to its reinstatement.
Sadly , at a time when a concerted front needs to be pursued and apparent, there are those who would continue to pursue the personalised blame game. Whilst I have no reservations about criticising, positively, apparent weaknesses within given approaches and policies by constituent bodies, the incessant personalised condemnation, largely built on assumptions and inaccuracy, is wasteful and misleading. An expectation of then being considered an equal participant in a failed partnership beggars belief. As an example,the recent publicity on the Web, given to what anyone would easily discern as a piece of mischievous fiction relating to the Eagle Owls and raptors in Bowland, is contrived controversy at its best. At its worst it is sheer dysfunctional delusion aimed at promoting self-serving positioning, and will have achieved nothing now it has backfired. But what a waste!
There is no place, in an atmosphere of increasing pressure against conservation, for diversionary actions aimed at self-promotion and the personal castigation of others. We will only win through by a strong and
concerted effort so that, numerically, we are seen to be a collectively strong voice for action that can set differences aside and act in a mature and informed fashion. Sadly some are incapable, or unwilling to so do and, in my book, should simply be ignored. All I would point to is what has been achieved by an obviously concerted action against harriers to prove what can be achieved!!
One wonders whether the extent to which this lack of cohesion, coupled with complacency amongst many followers of our hobby, is the main component in the failure of the Vicarious Liability E-petition? As at 1800 hours today it stands at 8937 signatures! This pathetic level of signatures is being blamed by some on the RSPB, whose assembled membership could obviously have made a significant numerical difference. However, I wonder whether the timing, intention , wording of the petition and promotion strategy was ever communicated to RSPB last November when the petition was raised, never mind discussed with them beforehand? Such an omission could be blamed as being a major part of the abject failure of the initiative, so let's get things in perspective. I hope I'm wrong, but offer the suggestion as an example of something about which , increasingly, we need to confer and co-operate to a greater extent than ever previously!
On another front, the anticipated results from the review of our wildlife legislation commissioned by DEFRA is due quite soon. Whether it will include elements that will address raptor persecution is anybody's guess, it might even consider the subject of vicarious liability and suggest the initiative taken by the Scottish Parliament is followed. Who knows?.
Clearly we are on the cusp of change in a variety of respects. Looking ahead already to the future, it is imperative everyone works towards common objectives, whatever the problems of the past. The challenge of reversing the current situation with harriers should not be underestimated, and certainly not in exchange for pursuing self-inflated agendas. There can only be one objective........that of ensuring the retention of the English harrier breeding population. The birds come first in my book; I'm not interested in bruised egos or any assumed shortcomings of others. In my view, to not be a part of a collective effort aimed at improvement is to be a contributor to its potential failure.
Return to reality! 7.5.2012.
Whilst I'll not bore you with the details, some as yet undiscovered fault on the freezer had caused the contents to virtually thaw through during my absence and remain like that for a few days. Windows open time and not a cause for celebration and a real appetite depressant too it must be said!
To accompany all that the weather was miserable with rain showers and a continuing brisk wind which provided a welcome cleansing "flush" through the back door!!
At least one of the local Swallows has returned and the resident Pied Wagtails are clearly nesting in the log pile, as they've attempted to do in each of the last four years. I can't recollect they've ever been successful and blame one or another of the two feral cats that stalk the local landscape. On the grass moor opposite the sentinel presence of both GBBG and Herring Gulls is a salutary reminder of the part they play as seasonal predators of both Lapwing and Curlew chicks from the nearby nesting pairs. At what is a time when many of our birds are yet to arrive, some of our residents have almost finished their annual contribution to the process already with some , of course, completing a further cycle in the breeding round in the weeks ahead.
To accompany all that the weather was miserable with rain showers and a continuing brisk wind which provided a welcome cleansing "flush" through the back door!!
At least one of the local Swallows has returned and the resident Pied Wagtails are clearly nesting in the log pile, as they've attempted to do in each of the last four years. I can't recollect they've ever been successful and blame one or another of the two feral cats that stalk the local landscape. On the grass moor opposite the sentinel presence of both GBBG and Herring Gulls is a salutary reminder of the part they play as seasonal predators of both Lapwing and Curlew chicks from the nearby nesting pairs. At what is a time when many of our birds are yet to arrive, some of our residents have almost finished their annual contribution to the process already with some , of course, completing a further cycle in the breeding round in the weeks ahead.
Transit day! 6.5.2012.
Another early start saw me at Scotch Corner by 0830 hours after a fairly traffic free journey up the A1. A breakfast sandwich enjoyed in the company of a Blackcap in full song only metres away was quite uplifting, particularly as the weather was in good form too. I always think the journey over the A66 is quite inspiring as you progress westwards and then begin to descend down into Cumbria . Another stop previous to the Scottish Border held yet a further Blackcap, suggesting that, at least, they appeared to be here and widespread.
Eating up the miles my next break was on top of the Rest and Be Thankful Pass where, you might have guessed, the weather had changed and it was sleeting. Nothing serious, but enough to be a reminder that the weather has not yet totally settled down!! The rest of the journey was uneventful and, once across to Islay, was positively delightful. The last of a full sun and a clear sky accompanied me down the Rinns, where a flock of Whimbrel on the shore was a reminder this was the key time for their passage northwards. Later a male Short-eared Owl leapt from a roadside post and swept around with the waters of Loch Indaal as its backcloth. Two really enjoyable wildlife experiences after a day, necessarily, where birds had been a bit thin on the ground!!
Eating up the miles my next break was on top of the Rest and Be Thankful Pass where, you might have guessed, the weather had changed and it was sleeting. Nothing serious, but enough to be a reminder that the weather has not yet totally settled down!! The rest of the journey was uneventful and, once across to Islay, was positively delightful. The last of a full sun and a clear sky accompanied me down the Rinns, where a flock of Whimbrel on the shore was a reminder this was the key time for their passage northwards. Later a male Short-eared Owl leapt from a roadside post and swept around with the waters of Loch Indaal as its backcloth. Two really enjoyable wildlife experiences after a day, necessarily, where birds had been a bit thin on the ground!!
Wetland Tour 5.5.2012.
Another early start in fine but cold weather! A call to Edderthorpe Flash showed the water level to be extremely high and, as a consequence, less on offer than might be the normal case! Moving on to Winteresett Reservoir conditions were better in that a welcome sun bathed everywhere in improved light but the cutting wind took away any effects of warmth! Hirundines hung low over the water or exploited the sheltered conditions behind lines of trees hunting out what one suspects were limited food supplies.
Lots of Chiffchaff and Blackcap around , but only a single Garden Warbler and Sedge Warbler sang from otherwise favourite areas. Later a single Lesser Whitethroat gave its distinctive rattle from a tangled hedgerow nearby to where a feeding area was still attracting good numbers of Tree Sparrow and a single male Yellowhammer. It's fascinating to see how time has seen a site change in some respects, hardly at all in others. The amount of tree and shrub cover has extended or thickened enormously and undoubtedly attracted more breeding birds than previously. From 1960 to the late 1970's/early 1980's it was my favoured birding site, probably still is in terms of memories!. Created long ago as a balancing reservoir for the nearby canal system, it's now exclusively given over to recreational use, but with its wildlife value being high on the agenda too. The nearby Anglers Lake, developed after the cessation of opencast mining, has more of a focus on wildlife conservation and these two areas provide an absolute plethora of first class birding sightings. Since the early 1970's when we created the Wintersett Ringing Group the concept has been kept alive, primarily by Peter Smith, friend and colleague, rumoured only ever to be at home during the hours of darkness!!
A great place, which even provided a good bird on this occasion too in the form of a Blue-headed Wagtail. It had been there a couple of days and , along with a single nominate "flavissima", that was an absolute belter and showed up as a bright yellow "blob" at a fair distance, gave some good views. Incoming Common Tern and Redshank showed migration to be in evidence ( we missed a Hobby by five minutes !) and a good chat to PS made the morning all the more worthwhile.
On to the Old Moor RSPB Reserve, where we discovered it was colder in most of the hides than outside due to the channelling effect of the cold wind through the viewing apertures, we had good views of a resplendent male Garganey, heard a couple of Reed Warbler chattering away, had absolutely mind boggling views of a singing Lesser Whitethroat and took in the wide variety of many other species present. Moving on to Wombwell Ings and Broomhill we enjoyed further views of the many birds which the area has on offer and which can provide a very full day of good birding at any time of year.
Lots of Chiffchaff and Blackcap around , but only a single Garden Warbler and Sedge Warbler sang from otherwise favourite areas. Later a single Lesser Whitethroat gave its distinctive rattle from a tangled hedgerow nearby to where a feeding area was still attracting good numbers of Tree Sparrow and a single male Yellowhammer. It's fascinating to see how time has seen a site change in some respects, hardly at all in others. The amount of tree and shrub cover has extended or thickened enormously and undoubtedly attracted more breeding birds than previously. From 1960 to the late 1970's/early 1980's it was my favoured birding site, probably still is in terms of memories!. Created long ago as a balancing reservoir for the nearby canal system, it's now exclusively given over to recreational use, but with its wildlife value being high on the agenda too. The nearby Anglers Lake, developed after the cessation of opencast mining, has more of a focus on wildlife conservation and these two areas provide an absolute plethora of first class birding sightings. Since the early 1970's when we created the Wintersett Ringing Group the concept has been kept alive, primarily by Peter Smith, friend and colleague, rumoured only ever to be at home during the hours of darkness!!
A great place, which even provided a good bird on this occasion too in the form of a Blue-headed Wagtail. It had been there a couple of days and , along with a single nominate "flavissima", that was an absolute belter and showed up as a bright yellow "blob" at a fair distance, gave some good views. Incoming Common Tern and Redshank showed migration to be in evidence ( we missed a Hobby by five minutes !) and a good chat to PS made the morning all the more worthwhile.
On to the Old Moor RSPB Reserve, where we discovered it was colder in most of the hides than outside due to the channelling effect of the cold wind through the viewing apertures, we had good views of a resplendent male Garganey, heard a couple of Reed Warbler chattering away, had absolutely mind boggling views of a singing Lesser Whitethroat and took in the wide variety of many other species present. Moving on to Wombwell Ings and Broomhill we enjoyed further views of the many birds which the area has on offer and which can provide a very full day of good birding at any time of year.
Moorland Fringe meeting! 4.5.2012
An early start to visit Padley Gorge just over the "border" in Derbyshire, a wonderful wooded gorge set amidst dramatic open moorland and descending down into Hathersage. Compared to a visit last year when the sun was pouring down, today was rather more sombre and exceedingly cold. Whilst slightly earlier, in calendar terms, the contrast was immense with fewer birds in evidence and song somewhat subdued to say the least.
Nuthatches were everywhere and kept the show alive, but apart from a showing from Chaffinch, Treecreeper and a few titmice, it was hard work until we finally pinned down one, and then two, Pied Flycatcher. Very restive within what we assumed were their recently selected territories, they moved around giving short bursts of song from a variety of perches. One bonus was that the trees aren't yet fully in leaf and so we had exceptionally good views of the birds. With very little else discovered we moved out on to the open moor and had great views of a Dipper along the stream which eventually tumbles through the gorge, before deciding to try elsewhere.
A necessary visit to the Hathersage Bakery was a welcoming experience with scores of "9" being awarded the respective breakfast sandwiches. Always best to go local!
On to exploring one of the gritstone edges which, initially, looked as if it was devoid of birds. Curlew, Meadow Pipit and a couple of Wheatears seemed to be all that was on offer until we approached the outcrop from a different angle. Suddenly up popped a resplendent male Ring Ousel and began singing , probably one of the best views I've ever had of the species. After being perfectly confiding for a short while, it moved farther along the gritstone boulders and sang from a perch overlooking the whole valley. A quintessential, first class, moorland image!
On to the Redmires area where, other than several displaying Common Sandpipers along the shores of the very full reservoir, and hearing a lone Golden Plover giving out its plaintive call from nearby moorland, bird activity was at a low ebb. Moving down valley a little to Wyming Brook, the temperature did actually rise somewhat given the shelter along the well wooded water course, but not enough to entice more than a few birds into song. Certainly summer migrants were in short supply and the continuing effect of the north east winds appears to be being maintained in holding back the arrival of many birds.
Conceding defeat, we returned and spent time talking about the comparative ways in which spring migration can proceed, following on from Matthew's recent experience in New York and daily visits to Central Park where the progress of northerly moving migrants changed on a daily basis!
Nuthatches were everywhere and kept the show alive, but apart from a showing from Chaffinch, Treecreeper and a few titmice, it was hard work until we finally pinned down one, and then two, Pied Flycatcher. Very restive within what we assumed were their recently selected territories, they moved around giving short bursts of song from a variety of perches. One bonus was that the trees aren't yet fully in leaf and so we had exceptionally good views of the birds. With very little else discovered we moved out on to the open moor and had great views of a Dipper along the stream which eventually tumbles through the gorge, before deciding to try elsewhere.
A necessary visit to the Hathersage Bakery was a welcoming experience with scores of "9" being awarded the respective breakfast sandwiches. Always best to go local!
On to exploring one of the gritstone edges which, initially, looked as if it was devoid of birds. Curlew, Meadow Pipit and a couple of Wheatears seemed to be all that was on offer until we approached the outcrop from a different angle. Suddenly up popped a resplendent male Ring Ousel and began singing , probably one of the best views I've ever had of the species. After being perfectly confiding for a short while, it moved farther along the gritstone boulders and sang from a perch overlooking the whole valley. A quintessential, first class, moorland image!
On to the Redmires area where, other than several displaying Common Sandpipers along the shores of the very full reservoir, and hearing a lone Golden Plover giving out its plaintive call from nearby moorland, bird activity was at a low ebb. Moving down valley a little to Wyming Brook, the temperature did actually rise somewhat given the shelter along the well wooded water course, but not enough to entice more than a few birds into song. Certainly summer migrants were in short supply and the continuing effect of the north east winds appears to be being maintained in holding back the arrival of many birds.
Conceding defeat, we returned and spent time talking about the comparative ways in which spring migration can proceed, following on from Matthew's recent experience in New York and daily visits to Central Park where the progress of northerly moving migrants changed on a daily basis!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
DeFRA's Darwin Initiative.
Now I'm not a person given to indulging in sour grapes, but I do bridle very quickly and violently when I sense a real injustice is apparent. Sadly I sense I've identified one!
Since 1992 DeFRA has presided over the Darwin Initiative and funds around £88 million have been disbursed to 150 countries to underpin 762 projects. That is a record that, sincerely, I feel we should be very pleased about and take a sense of pride in there being such mechanisms in place. Recently has come the announcement that £300,000 will be made available to Iraq for conservation management, resources and educational initiatives to be formulated in Kurdistan, an area containing wildlife and habitats that has seen little investment in the last 30 years due to war and the ravages of an oppressive regime. Again, I have no problems with that at all and am actually pleased such action has been instigated at this early stage alongside attempts to improve a variety of aspects within Iraq now taking place. Putting right something that was clearly wrong or ignored can again provide a feeling of justified satisfaction.
I'm minded of action of a different type too. On occasions, via our representatives in the European parliament the UK has striven to bring attention to the ridiculous situation in places like Cyprus, Italy and Malta where an annual, mindless slaughter of birds takes place. Indeed condemnation of such activities around the Mediterranean Basin appears to have been a feature focussed on by various campaigning initiatives in past years. Justified action demanding improvement and change that again we can take pride in.
So how come our high principled Government and its appropriate Department can stand by and countenance our own "oppressive regime", in the form of upland landowners decimating our bird of prey populations , and not raise a finger, utter a word of condemnation, invoke stronger penalties nor fund conservation action aimed at rectifying the situation. A clear case of HYPOCRISY IN ACTION and the pursuance of policies of convenience and choice! We have no right to outwardly criticise countries around the Mediterranean while similar activities, set firm against the laws of the land, are taking place here in the UK. "Greenest Government Ever".......what a joke and what a travesty when set against the otherwise positive support being offered elsewhere.
One asks what has happened to the DeFRA Hen Harrier Recovery Programme implemented through its official agent, Natural England. Tokenism of the worst kind in that one begins to suspect the programme was never laced with real intent in the first place. Playing conservation on the world stage and buying in a solid reputation is one thing, totally neglecting equally worthwhile candidates at home begins to provide a real interpretation of where the true sentiments of the Government lie.
Since 1992 DeFRA has presided over the Darwin Initiative and funds around £88 million have been disbursed to 150 countries to underpin 762 projects. That is a record that, sincerely, I feel we should be very pleased about and take a sense of pride in there being such mechanisms in place. Recently has come the announcement that £300,000 will be made available to Iraq for conservation management, resources and educational initiatives to be formulated in Kurdistan, an area containing wildlife and habitats that has seen little investment in the last 30 years due to war and the ravages of an oppressive regime. Again, I have no problems with that at all and am actually pleased such action has been instigated at this early stage alongside attempts to improve a variety of aspects within Iraq now taking place. Putting right something that was clearly wrong or ignored can again provide a feeling of justified satisfaction.
I'm minded of action of a different type too. On occasions, via our representatives in the European parliament the UK has striven to bring attention to the ridiculous situation in places like Cyprus, Italy and Malta where an annual, mindless slaughter of birds takes place. Indeed condemnation of such activities around the Mediterranean Basin appears to have been a feature focussed on by various campaigning initiatives in past years. Justified action demanding improvement and change that again we can take pride in.
So how come our high principled Government and its appropriate Department can stand by and countenance our own "oppressive regime", in the form of upland landowners decimating our bird of prey populations , and not raise a finger, utter a word of condemnation, invoke stronger penalties nor fund conservation action aimed at rectifying the situation. A clear case of HYPOCRISY IN ACTION and the pursuance of policies of convenience and choice! We have no right to outwardly criticise countries around the Mediterranean while similar activities, set firm against the laws of the land, are taking place here in the UK. "Greenest Government Ever".......what a joke and what a travesty when set against the otherwise positive support being offered elsewhere.
One asks what has happened to the DeFRA Hen Harrier Recovery Programme implemented through its official agent, Natural England. Tokenism of the worst kind in that one begins to suspect the programme was never laced with real intent in the first place. Playing conservation on the world stage and buying in a solid reputation is one thing, totally neglecting equally worthwhile candidates at home begins to provide a real interpretation of where the true sentiments of the Government lie.
English Black Grouse resurgence !
Before leaving Islay I was discussing with Malcolm Ogilvie the rather sad circumstances surrounding Black Grouse on both Islay and Jura. Reports from various local people suggest that, in the 1980's, Black Grouse was both widespread and relatively plentiful on the islands. That now stands in stark contrast to the current situation where the species might still be present, but is most certainly in very low numbers and in danger of being lost completely.
At the risk of being labelled an "avian Jonah" such discussions resonate with my previous experience of having seen the species undergo similar drastic, and then more gradual, final reductions in both the Peak District and in the Forest of Bowland. In both areas the sad sight of a forlorn single male lekking alone over a couple of seasons, with no other birds being seen throughout the period despite searching, is not particularly edifying. Indeed the recent past history of the Black Grouse genearally has been a cause for concern. In past times the species was relatively common and was even found in suitable habitats in southern and eastern England. In 1970 there was an estimated 25,000 lekking males, but this total had reduced to around 5000 when a further survey was completed in 2005.
The current population is centred on the adjoining areas of Cumbria, Northumberland, County Durham and North Yorkshire. The last two breeding seasons have seen a successful recovery by an overall population that had suffered the effects of the previous very bad winter. Indeed, such has been that success that it has provided the very means that might now see Black Grouse returned to some of their former haunts!
Male Black Grouse are stick at home types that apparently are highly unlikely to move more than half a mile from where they were born. Young females,by contrast, are much more likely to move up to four miles to seek out new and favourable areas in which to breed. These intensive studies of the species by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust in recent times might just have identified key elements upon which positive conservation actions can now be based. In the major traditional strongholds for the species the past two seasons has seen a welcome surplus of male birds being produced. Fifteen of these were captured and transferred AT NIGHT into an area where birds were present previously, but which had been abandoned in recent times. Not only did the translocated birds settle down , prosper, and commence to lek but they've attracted female birds too. I think a popular summary would be , BINGO, A RESULT!!! The birds will continue to be monitored and only future years will determine how matters evolve. After so much research in the past on habitat requirements and management techniques that have only had a mixed success, this innovative approach may yet provide the simple, fundamental ingredient that was so desperately needed.
Well done, GWCT!!
At the risk of being labelled an "avian Jonah" such discussions resonate with my previous experience of having seen the species undergo similar drastic, and then more gradual, final reductions in both the Peak District and in the Forest of Bowland. In both areas the sad sight of a forlorn single male lekking alone over a couple of seasons, with no other birds being seen throughout the period despite searching, is not particularly edifying. Indeed the recent past history of the Black Grouse genearally has been a cause for concern. In past times the species was relatively common and was even found in suitable habitats in southern and eastern England. In 1970 there was an estimated 25,000 lekking males, but this total had reduced to around 5000 when a further survey was completed in 2005.
The current population is centred on the adjoining areas of Cumbria, Northumberland, County Durham and North Yorkshire. The last two breeding seasons have seen a successful recovery by an overall population that had suffered the effects of the previous very bad winter. Indeed, such has been that success that it has provided the very means that might now see Black Grouse returned to some of their former haunts!
Male Black Grouse are stick at home types that apparently are highly unlikely to move more than half a mile from where they were born. Young females,by contrast, are much more likely to move up to four miles to seek out new and favourable areas in which to breed. These intensive studies of the species by the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust in recent times might just have identified key elements upon which positive conservation actions can now be based. In the major traditional strongholds for the species the past two seasons has seen a welcome surplus of male birds being produced. Fifteen of these were captured and transferred AT NIGHT into an area where birds were present previously, but which had been abandoned in recent times. Not only did the translocated birds settle down , prosper, and commence to lek but they've attracted female birds too. I think a popular summary would be , BINGO, A RESULT!!! The birds will continue to be monitored and only future years will determine how matters evolve. After so much research in the past on habitat requirements and management techniques that have only had a mixed success, this innovative approach may yet provide the simple, fundamental ingredient that was so desperately needed.
Well done, GWCT!!
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
Tables!
Apologies , folks. The list of figures in the table were in perfect alignment at the point of publication. They're in perfect alignment if I try and use the "edit" option, but the final product looks a little less pristine! Sorry.
Hen Harriers in Bowland.........a lament!
Recent days have brought the news that there has been virtually no Hen Harriers seen in the Forest of Bowland, Lancashire this Spring and no evidence, as yet, of any pairs taking up territory. Given the breeding population of the area had reduced in 2011 to only four pairs, rearing eleven young,, the fear of imminent extinction in this final English stronghold of the species clearly moves closer.
Doubtless the reduced numbers of birds is a stark consequence of the unabated persecution elsewhere of the species by game management interests, which is so regularly reported on, but upon which no sustained action is currently evident from interested organizations. Sadly, current RSPB PR outpourings about Bowland are very "cosy" and avoid the issue of a regional and NATIONAL population being reduced even further or possibly reaching local extinction. Doubtless there will be those who will celebrate these circumstances whilst others, like me, feel the situation to be potentially disastrous and demanding of the strongest retaliatory stance possible from both conservation organisations and Government alike.
Over the past few years the English breeding population of the Hen Harrier has been eroded away until only the Bowland nucleus remained in 2011. Much has been said in the past about contributing circumstances, e.g. low Spring food availability for adults or poor weather, with such statements being given equal prominence to those dealing with raptor persecution that is the real culprit associated with the declining fortunes of this species.
With over thirty years now having elapsed since that fateful day when I was given the responsibility to oversee the RSPB's regional association with the Forest of Bowland I look back today and feel even more despairing than I did then !! Up to 1999, when I took early retirement, the species had done reasonably well and continued to do so until recently when it became apparent that deliberately focussed persecution away from the Bowland area was beginning to seriously undermine the numbers of birds involved.
Immediately previous to the RSPB's involvement in 1981, the wilful destruction of young at six Hen Harrier nests was widely reported in the Press. The incident sparked off an outcry and was the instigation of an RSPB seasonal presence in Bowland for several years, assisted by the North West Water Authority, which eventually extended into the year round presence, now assisted by United Utilities, which continues to this day. As many will know, the Forest of Bowland comprises several private estates plus over 25,000 acres of land previously held by the North West Water Authority, which is now administered by the private water utility company, United Utilities. In 1981 the NWWA had a series of tenanted shooting leases associated with its land so, in essence, there was little difference in terms of the management approach compared to the remaining private estates in Bowland in that all areas were keepered.
It's essential to mention these details as , at that time, the work involved was much more extensive and intensive compared to the more restricted area upon which the operation rests today. Shooting tenants and their keepers, five major private estates, agents and their keepers, the Nature Conservancy Council, Forestry Commission, Police, the County Council and the Water Authority itself, voluntary surveyors and endless others , provided a rich panoply of vested interests and opinions to address as well as trying to move the RSPB's own objectives forward. Primarily the latter was to better establish the populations of the various bird of prey species and to effect as much protection as possible. In 1981 there were 17 nests of Hen Harriers and, thankfully, a buoyant presence also of Peregrine, Merlin, Short-eared Owl and Goshawk, besides other conservation challenges associated with species like Black Grouse. An examination of the figures provided below will show the annual successful breeding attempts by Hen Harrier to fluctuate significantly. It must be emphasised that these attempts were also accompanied by others , the birds from which either failed under strange circumstances or disappeared!! Such figures are available, make for depressing reading and will be reported on separately in due course.
Those years were hard, particularly for the contract workers and voluntary surveyors, whose hours on the hill far exceeded what would now be recommended by EU legislation! Wildlife activity is a dawn to dusk reality, as are activities adopted to constrain it and, therefore, vigilance and the presence needed to match these demanding parameters was excessive, most of which fell outside of "office hours". Things weren't always smooth with owners and tenants either: fall-outs occurred, accusations were made, incidents were referred to the police and formal action pursued. However, despite all this, there was a strange mutual respect between parties with differing views, grudging at times, but gradually some improvement occurred. The relentless hours on the hill, the polite referral of matters about which we had concerns, eventually showed that our passion and commitment stemmed, not from some "popular belief", but was seminal and pursued what we felt ought to be a better situation. I'm sure we were deemed a nuisance, or worse, but I believe that owners , agents and keepers eventually began to respect the sheer commitment and determination that was displayed and that this led to a wider understanding of what we stood for. Habits died hard, but some improvement did occur and more effective liaision took place, which helped things move forward.
My reason for setting all this out is that , in my opinion, with the current Hen Harrier breeding population in England being down to only FOUR successful pairs in 2011, there is a desperate need to reassess the policies being pursued by the various agencies in Bowland at the present time, as well as addressing anew the general matter of persecution of raptors in England as a whole.. Recognizing the amount of work required across a variety of fronts I feel strongly that the current emphasis adopted by the RSPB in Bowland is not fit for purpose, given its focus on a single geographical area with no apparent liaison in place with other Estates. As far as Natural England is concerned, as the agent of the Government in these matters, the question of raptor persecution appears to be a subject they prefer to ignore and, therefore, the issue largely gets swept under the carpet. The imminent reality of this situation is that, without urgent action across several fronts, and not just in Bowland, the species will become extinct as a breeding species in England.
This is not the first time that such a situation has been faced in Bowland.. In 1985, despite seven nesting attempts, only one youngster was raised, followed by five attempts in both 1986 and 1987 from which only five and four youngsters survived! The table below shows the known nesting attempts in each of the years 1981-2005 and the corresponding number of young reared. Since that period the situation recently has deteriorated rapidly resulting in the 2011 outcome.
83 2 7 92 15 9 02 6 10
84 9 4 93 10 12 03 13 12
85 7 1 94 7 12 04 10 25
86 5 5 95 9 9 05 15 23
87 5 4 96 7 19
88 5 15 97 14 13
89 14 20 98 8 22
99 11 24
Note; In 2001 the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease restricted access arrangements.
It is no use deluding ourselves as far as the main controlling factor is concerned. Human persecution of the species occurs and deliberately attempts to exterminate or limit the numbers of the birds due to the conflicts arising from its presence and its predation on Red Grouse stocks, which allegedly challenges the viability of shoots. Further details on such matters will be dealt with in due course.
The objective of this current plea is to highlight the need for an immediate, wider and more flexible approach by all agencies involved to avert the demise of the species but also to set those efforts on a better footing for the future
Doubtless the reduced numbers of birds is a stark consequence of the unabated persecution elsewhere of the species by game management interests, which is so regularly reported on, but upon which no sustained action is currently evident from interested organizations. Sadly, current RSPB PR outpourings about Bowland are very "cosy" and avoid the issue of a regional and NATIONAL population being reduced even further or possibly reaching local extinction. Doubtless there will be those who will celebrate these circumstances whilst others, like me, feel the situation to be potentially disastrous and demanding of the strongest retaliatory stance possible from both conservation organisations and Government alike.
Over the past few years the English breeding population of the Hen Harrier has been eroded away until only the Bowland nucleus remained in 2011. Much has been said in the past about contributing circumstances, e.g. low Spring food availability for adults or poor weather, with such statements being given equal prominence to those dealing with raptor persecution that is the real culprit associated with the declining fortunes of this species.
With over thirty years now having elapsed since that fateful day when I was given the responsibility to oversee the RSPB's regional association with the Forest of Bowland I look back today and feel even more despairing than I did then !! Up to 1999, when I took early retirement, the species had done reasonably well and continued to do so until recently when it became apparent that deliberately focussed persecution away from the Bowland area was beginning to seriously undermine the numbers of birds involved.
Immediately previous to the RSPB's involvement in 1981, the wilful destruction of young at six Hen Harrier nests was widely reported in the Press. The incident sparked off an outcry and was the instigation of an RSPB seasonal presence in Bowland for several years, assisted by the North West Water Authority, which eventually extended into the year round presence, now assisted by United Utilities, which continues to this day. As many will know, the Forest of Bowland comprises several private estates plus over 25,000 acres of land previously held by the North West Water Authority, which is now administered by the private water utility company, United Utilities. In 1981 the NWWA had a series of tenanted shooting leases associated with its land so, in essence, there was little difference in terms of the management approach compared to the remaining private estates in Bowland in that all areas were keepered.
It's essential to mention these details as , at that time, the work involved was much more extensive and intensive compared to the more restricted area upon which the operation rests today. Shooting tenants and their keepers, five major private estates, agents and their keepers, the Nature Conservancy Council, Forestry Commission, Police, the County Council and the Water Authority itself, voluntary surveyors and endless others , provided a rich panoply of vested interests and opinions to address as well as trying to move the RSPB's own objectives forward. Primarily the latter was to better establish the populations of the various bird of prey species and to effect as much protection as possible. In 1981 there were 17 nests of Hen Harriers and, thankfully, a buoyant presence also of Peregrine, Merlin, Short-eared Owl and Goshawk, besides other conservation challenges associated with species like Black Grouse. An examination of the figures provided below will show the annual successful breeding attempts by Hen Harrier to fluctuate significantly. It must be emphasised that these attempts were also accompanied by others , the birds from which either failed under strange circumstances or disappeared!! Such figures are available, make for depressing reading and will be reported on separately in due course.
Those years were hard, particularly for the contract workers and voluntary surveyors, whose hours on the hill far exceeded what would now be recommended by EU legislation! Wildlife activity is a dawn to dusk reality, as are activities adopted to constrain it and, therefore, vigilance and the presence needed to match these demanding parameters was excessive, most of which fell outside of "office hours". Things weren't always smooth with owners and tenants either: fall-outs occurred, accusations were made, incidents were referred to the police and formal action pursued. However, despite all this, there was a strange mutual respect between parties with differing views, grudging at times, but gradually some improvement occurred. The relentless hours on the hill, the polite referral of matters about which we had concerns, eventually showed that our passion and commitment stemmed, not from some "popular belief", but was seminal and pursued what we felt ought to be a better situation. I'm sure we were deemed a nuisance, or worse, but I believe that owners , agents and keepers eventually began to respect the sheer commitment and determination that was displayed and that this led to a wider understanding of what we stood for. Habits died hard, but some improvement did occur and more effective liaision took place, which helped things move forward.
My reason for setting all this out is that , in my opinion, with the current Hen Harrier breeding population in England being down to only FOUR successful pairs in 2011, there is a desperate need to reassess the policies being pursued by the various agencies in Bowland at the present time, as well as addressing anew the general matter of persecution of raptors in England as a whole.. Recognizing the amount of work required across a variety of fronts I feel strongly that the current emphasis adopted by the RSPB in Bowland is not fit for purpose, given its focus on a single geographical area with no apparent liaison in place with other Estates. As far as Natural England is concerned, as the agent of the Government in these matters, the question of raptor persecution appears to be a subject they prefer to ignore and, therefore, the issue largely gets swept under the carpet. The imminent reality of this situation is that, without urgent action across several fronts, and not just in Bowland, the species will become extinct as a breeding species in England.
This is not the first time that such a situation has been faced in Bowland.. In 1985, despite seven nesting attempts, only one youngster was raised, followed by five attempts in both 1986 and 1987 from which only five and four youngsters survived! The table below shows the known nesting attempts in each of the years 1981-2005 and the corresponding number of young reared. Since that period the situation recently has deteriorated rapidly resulting in the 2011 outcome.
SUCCESSFUL NESTING ATTEMPTS OF HEN HARRIER IN THE FOREST OF BOWLAND, LANCASHIRE, 1981-2005, AND THE NUMBER OF YOUNG PRODUCED.
1981 17 nests, 42 young 1990 15 nests, 26 young 2000 7 nests, 6 young
82 15 52 91 18 22 01 see below83 2 7 92 15 9 02 6 10
84 9 4 93 10 12 03 13 12
85 7 1 94 7 12 04 10 25
86 5 5 95 9 9 05 15 23
87 5 4 96 7 19
88 5 15 97 14 13
89 14 20 98 8 22
99 11 24
Note; In 2001 the outbreak of Foot and Mouth disease restricted access arrangements.
It is no use deluding ourselves as far as the main controlling factor is concerned. Human persecution of the species occurs and deliberately attempts to exterminate or limit the numbers of the birds due to the conflicts arising from its presence and its predation on Red Grouse stocks, which allegedly challenges the viability of shoots. Further details on such matters will be dealt with in due course.
The objective of this current plea is to highlight the need for an immediate, wider and more flexible approach by all agencies involved to avert the demise of the species but also to set those efforts on a better footing for the future
The table below shows the distribution , by Estate, of the successful breeding pairs of Hen Harriers in Bowland in the period 1981-2005. Recent assertions that birds have never bred on certain estates is arrant nonsense and little more than a PR ploy by those wishing to better assist their positioning.
SUCCESSFUL NESTING ATTEMPTS BY HEN HARRIER ON BOWLAND ESTATES IN THE PERIOD 1981-2005.
NWWA/United Utilities 153
Bleasdale Estate 37
Abbeystead Estate 34
Clapham Estate 15
Wide coverage of Bowland in the past ensured estates could be advised of what was present on their land and what the "outcome expectation" might be. A game of bluff or threat....call it what you will, but it resulted in a far wider distribution of harriers than at present and assisted greatly when the case for Special Protection Area ( SPA ) status was being pursued under EU legislation. Whilst endless hectares of suitable breeding habitat still exists within the SPA boundary in Bowland , much of the area carries no harriers. Are questions ever asked why and the case brought into the public domain? Is evidence collected and utilised on the presence of strongly displaying birds in Spring which then disappear or worse? Sadly, the position adopted by Natural England is to passively accept the situation and, until specific evidence of persecution is collected, to treat all such birds as transient! Naive, convenient, or both? Who deliberately leaves evidence of their misdemeanour's? And, in the meantime, the "grey suits" nod sagely over the results from the latest monitoring exercise and work collectively towards some trite justification to underpin the deterioration!
In parallel, the RSPB's operation , jointly funded by United Utilities, centre's on the latter's landholding. The company is obviously at one with being able to demonstrate its "green credentials" by declaiming they are playing host to this remnant population. However, I suspect they attract criticism too for such involvements, so praise for their overt support for such a priority conservation input is well deserved. But what of Clapham Estate, Bleasdale Estate and other areas? Are they ever looked at, as the past presence of breeding harriers contributed greatly to the overall success? Unfortunately, the Duchy of Lancaster landholding, whilst attracting the presence of harriers over the years, has only seen a single successful breeding attempt ( in 2010 ). Sadly , I suspect a " conservation foot has rarely trodden the sod" of many of these areas in over ten years and, therefore, the potential for greater access and wider influence has been lost.
In recent times the Abbeystead Estate, owned by the Duke of Westminster, which now incorporates the former Mallowdale Estate, has been the main focus of the research studies of Natural England related to harriers as part of the Hen Harrier Recovery Programme, whose current status appears a little obscure at best. The results from this not inexpensive outlay by Government, for which they are to be congratulated, are eagerly awaited, but one suspects the intended emphasis on dispersal studies will perhaps act as a guiding star to what then happened to the unfortunate individuals providing the data returns! Given the current situation one would have thought it behove the Government to hasten on the publication of such results given they will have an actual , or implied, link to the areas from which many of our harriers appear not to return!!
Is it surprising that circumstances have deteriorated? Is it surprising that data is skewed at best, inadequate in its worst extreme? And is it surprising that hitherto stalwart supporters start to question the motives and efficacy of organisations about whom they had the greatest confidence previously. Has the situation gone a step too far this time in that hard fought for successes of the past have now been allowed to lapse? Can it be recovered? Probably, but only if sufficient resources and firm management emerges.
One questions why, when the SPA designation case noted the numbers of harriers breeding throughout the area why, in subsequent years, those responsible didn't vigorously pursue the obvious reduction in numbers and range and the reasons involved. I suspect it's the difference between really being on top of the job or not!! Confrontation is not an enjoyable process , but a willingness to pursue a justified case that eventually secures credibility and respect can generate small successes that then gain momentum. Such efforts often fall outside the 9am-5pm mentality and the reliance on "management manual solutions" seemingly so favoured nowadays. In today's culture I sometimes weaken and have very little confidence that this conservation battle will be won. As to the war, the battle lines seem not even formed, nor the force expressed apart from periodic statements of condemnation, although the focus of the case seems to be at an all time low ebb at present.
So what is required? Education schemes, public viewing projects, talks, walks and the more enjoyable elements of a campaign are all essential contributory features to success. But they are long term "deliverers" when the current situation demands something more immediate and robust. Much has been tried before, but an immediate, renewed, hard and sustained assault on persecution by RSPB, via a national campaign, with a particular critical emphasis on Government's lack of recognition of the problem, should be constructed on the back of the current situation. In Bowland, a greater and wider visible presence on the ground, including liaison work by senior staff, an unceasing and hard hitting exposure of all incidents coupled with a never ending reportage on the overall problem should commence immediately. Most importantly the deployment of a "resident" investigation team in the area of Northern England that is known to be at the forefront of where dispersing birds are persecuted is required. The imminent appointment of an Investigations Officer based in Newcastle is a good start , but not enough. It's time to up the game now that the odds are high and to indicate that enough really is enough!! Yes, there'll be protests at financial reallocations, but what has been a failed priority of the past must now be "the" priority until success is secured regardless of management tensions.
The years of 1985-87 were a nightmare I prefer to forget, but eventually success was earned. Let's hope that 2012 will still prove to be much better than those past occasions and will be viewed as a turning point in what will continue to be a battle for some time until the culture of greed, criminality and harm by some turns into more civilized behaviour. However, that does mean increased commitment and resolve from conservation organizations and a much better display of action against persecution by the Government to better reflect what currently is little more than a vacuous claim of being the "Greenest Government" ever. Since the acknowledgement by RSPB some months ago of the English harrier population being under serious threat I've seen no "Thin Red Line" declarations or actions. Hopefully some collective and immediate plan of action will arise that will ensure a more secure future faces our raptor species, particularly Hen Harriers, than at present.
John S. Armitage.
http://www.birdingodyssey.blogspot.com/
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