Factors affecting nest survival of Northern Lapwings Vanellus vanellus in arable farmland: an agri-environment scheme prescription can enhance nest survival

Abstract

Capsule A spring/summer fallow agri-environment prescription improved Lapwing nest survival. Aims To identify the key determinants of nest survival in arable landscapes, and assess the effectiveness of an agri-environment prescription designed to provide nesting habitat for breeding Lapwings. Methods Lapwing nest success was monitored on a number of farms in Shropshire and Staffordshire, UK, during 1999 and 2000. All nests were mapped and a number of habitat variables recorded. Results Compared with previous studies, nest survival was generally quite high, although there were significant differences between crop types. Nests on fields managed under the agri-environment prescription Option 1B had a greater chance of survival than nests on conventionally managed fields. Overall, the main causes of nest loss were predation and agricultural operations, but causes of nest loss were not consistent between crop types. Crop type, nest status and distances to field boundary and predator perches had a significant effect on nest survival. Nests that were more than 50 m from the nearest field boundary had a higher daily survival rate than nests that were closer. Conclusion Lapwing nest survival on arable farmland can be enhanced through the promotion of an agri-environment prescription that promotes spring/summer fallow and consideration of the timing of agricultural operations. To maximize benefits of conservation measures, fields should be managed to have areas within them that are sufficiently distant from field boundaries to reduce predation.