Harsh winters blamed for bird population decline

The number of countryside bird species in decline has shown an alarming rise, with 13 species now under threat as against eight in the last survey.

Birdwatch Ireland’s annual Countryside Bird Survey for 1998-2010, which monitors breeding bird populations, reveals the most significant declines were in populations of swift, grey wagtail, kestrel, and greenfinch.

For 15 species, including the stonechat, long-tailed tit and meadow pipit, 2010 was the lowest year ever recorded.