Chough and Dartford Warbler Records

Amongst the many birds that breed in Pembrokeshire we are blessed with significant populations of Chough and Dartford Warbler. Each has its own habitat requirements which need careful management - basically healthy gorse for the Dartfords and close cropped turf for Chough.

It would be of considerable help to those who monitor these birds and manage their habitats if records of sightings of both species are sent to Jane Hodges the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority Ecologist . Ideally a six figure map reference is needed with the date and number of birds seen, together with details of activity observed such as breeding behaviour or feeding. Details of any colour rings seen on Choughs is also extremely useful. This information will be invaluable in ensuring that management of sites such as controlled burning of gorse (necessary to promote healthy gorse and a diversity of plantlife in gorse covered areas) does not take place in inappropriate areas or close to the breeding season.

Please send records to Jane via e mail to janeh@pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk   Records are welcome from local birders and visitors alike. The precise location of breeding birds will not be revealed on Pembrokeshire Birds due to the protected status of both species.