Across the UK, the numbers of ground nesting birds are declining due to loss of habitat and disturbance by people and dogs. A ground nesting bird builds its nest on the ground, rather than in a tree or hedge.
According to the RSPB, skylark numbers in the UK have halved since the 1990s and continue to decline. The Skylark, rising high and singing in its endless chorus, is one such species we have come to love as a symbol of our countryside. They are now a red listed species in the UK due to these dramatic population declines. Meadow pipit numbers have also declined since the 1990's and are an amber listed species.
During the breeding season, (from the 1st March to 31st July) skylarks (and other such as meadow pipits) will be laying and incubating eggs and rearing their chicks.
You can help care for these special birds by keeping to the paths where you see the signs. Their nests are always remarkably well hidden.
Small signs have been erected in areas where ground-nesting birds are known to nest on Malvern Common, as well as elsewhere in the Hills, asking walkers (especially dog walkers) to keep to paths or to take an alternative route to reduce levels of disturbance.
What does disturbance look like?
Birds which are scared off a nest leave their eggs or chicks vulnerable to predation. The bird itself goes into a 'fight or flight' response, where its stress levels are raised. If repeated disturbance events occur throughout the day, often the adult bird will perceive the area as unsafe, and can abandon its nest completely. It will then be forced to build a nest and mate, lay eggs and rear chicks all over again, often the energy demands are too high for adult birds and they can die.
Even if your dog means no harm to the birds, the adult birds will see the dog as a threat and could abandon its nest. If the adults are away for too long, the eggs or chicks may get too cold and die.
At the Malvern Hills Trust we have works underway to create more areas of open habitat and grassland for these species to help slow their decline nationally.
You can help by looking out for the signs, keeping your dog on a short lead and keeping to the paths. Please share this message with friends and family, as well as fellow visitors to the Hills and Commons.
