Bird survey raises fears for species

THE corn bunting has become extinct and the lark in the clear air is becoming a rarity, according to a survey of Ireland’s breeding bird populations.

But while numbers of skylark may be declining, other birds such as blackcap and stonechat are rising.

A report, published jointly by BirdWatch Ireland, the Heritage Council and Dept of the Environment highlights changes in Ireland’s breeding bird populations.

Milder climate has perhaps been responsible for better winter survival of some species and even the arrival of new ones to this country, such as the little egret and Mediterranean gull. However there have also been serious declines.

Changing farming methods and land development have all lent to the decline.