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Scotland’s changing bird species reveal climate change impact
There has been a more than 500 per cent increase in great spotted woodpeckers.
Warmer and wetter weather has changed the populations living in the country.

New statistics on Scotland’s changing bird populations have reflected the impact that climate change has had on the prominence of different species.

The country’s wetter summers and warmer winters, caused by climate change, have resulted in significant increases of some bird species, and decreases of others.

A report, conducted by NatureScot, has identified that 18 out of 23 species on the Scottish woodland indicator have seen population increases since 1994. This has included an over 500 per cent increase in chiffchaffs, blackcaps and great spotted woodpeckers.

There have also been increases of more than 50 per cent for the bullfinch, great tit, wren, tree pipit, song thrush and willow warbler.

The increase in willow warblers especially reflects changes in Scotland’s climate. The higher temperatures have meant Scotland has become a ‘climate refuge’ for many species, as it reaches the birds’ preferred temperatures.

Farmland birds have seen significant long-term increases, with a 358 per cent increase in goldfinches, 128 per cent increase in whitethroats and 120 per cent increase in great tits. These species are now twice as abundant as they were in 1994.

However some farmland birds had suffered a decrease in their population numbers, including an over 50 per cent decrease in kestrels, greenfinches and lapwings.

Upland birds were most affected by the effects of climate change, particularly due to the increased rainfall in the summer. Of the 17 species on the list, 12 have seen a decline since 1994.

This includes an over 50 per cent drop in black grouse, curlews and dotterels, due to climate change, forest expansion and changing land management practices.

Simon Foster, trends and indicators analyst at NatureScot, said: “The report shows how our weather today will affect bird populations in future years.

“With extreme weather such as flooding and heat becoming more prevalent, we must ensure that improving Scotland’s nature and habitats uses the latest science to help deliver the best results. Working with volunteers and scientists gives us the vital information needed to do this.”

Image © Shutterstock

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.