RSPB calls for more targeted bird care measures

Seed-rich stubbles for hungry winter birds. Open nesting areas full of juicy insects for growing chicks. Grass and flowers in field corners. This isn’t any production control mechanism. This is the UK’s set-aside mechanism, writes RSPB head of countryside conservation, Sue Armstrong Brown.

Of course, we all know that most set-aside is not a wildlife haven. So why have environmental groups been so concerned about it’s going? And why has DEFRA secretary Hilary Benn delivered such a clear challenge to farmers, to protect wildlife in the transition to 0% set-aside or face regulation? Moreover, how can farmers rise to it?

One of the strengths of set-aside is simply that there was lots of it. It made the whole countryside more varied, and wildlife loves variety, which increases the range of food and habitats available.

Of course, those same benefits could be delivered on a much smaller area if it was specially managed for wildlife – and this is the key to how can farmers answer Mr Benn’s challenge.

Some fixed set-aside may not be worth bringing back into cultivation, and part of this will have built up significant value for flowers or insects. It’s worth keeping the best bits for wildlife, and using conservation management to ensure a richer resource on a smaller area.

Uncropped, rotational land is the secret jewel in the old set-aside crown. Weedy set-aside stubble is the best winter food source for birds on many farms and, if spraying is delayed until late May, can be the most important summer habitat for some species too.

Agri-environment measures, such as skylark plots, overwinter stubble and spring fallow replicate these opportunities, but have had a very low take-up. Our concern over losing set-aside would turn to joy if farmers chose more of these field centre options.

Most farms can do a great deal to help common farmland species, such as skylark, yellowhammer and linnet. Scarcer species, such as grey partridge or snipe, will need more tailored management. The key is to provide the Big Three for the birds on the farm: nesting habitat, summer food and winter food.

Environmentalists and farmers have a proud record of working together to make the best of the opportunities set-aside has offered for the environment. The new challenge is clear. Let’s work together to meet it.

Got a view on the challenge to farmers? Why not share it on our set-aside forum?