The Red‐billed Leiothrix (Leiothrix lutea): a new invasive species for Britain?

Abstract

Invasive non‐native species (INNS) are one of the major threats to global biodiversity. Climate change and garden bird‐feeding may facilitate the establishment of INNS. The Red‐billed Leiothrix Leiothrix lutea is a small woodland passerine, native to subtropical Asia, that is an INNS in several parts of the world, including Europe, following escapes from the aviculture trade. Recently, populations of Red‐billed Leiothrix have established in Spain, Portugal, Italy and France. Previous studies have shown that much of Europe is suitable for the species, including southern Britain. The Red‐billed Leiothrix has not previously been considered as at high risk of establishment in Britain, but we document recent records, including a cluster in southern England, suggesting that establishment may already be underway. We discuss the potential negative impacts of this invasive species on local ecosystems, and how a warming climate and garden bird‐feeding might assist their establishment in temperate Europe. We also highlight the importance of improved recording to monitor the potential establishment of INNS, such as the Red‐billed Leiothrix, in Britain.