Woodlarks in Britain, 1968-83

A review of information published in the relevant county bird reports shows that the breeding population of Woodlarks Lullula arborea in Britain declined from 200-450 pairs in 1968-72 to 160-180 pairs in 1975, rose to 400-430 pairs in 1981, and then dropped again to 210-230 pairs in 1983. Reasons for these changes are discussed. Availability of suitable habitat is considered to be the key factor. Many breeding sites are deserted in winter. A small passage is noted at various coastal sites during spring and autumn. The winter population appears to be much reduced compared with the breeding season. These factors are advanced as reasons for regarding British breeding Woodlarks as partial migrants.