Issues over soil quality impacting Welsh biodiversity

Biodiversity in Wales is suffering due to a combination of modern farming techniques and new developments, it has been reported.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) has called for an inquiry after many wild bird populations in Wales were found to be in moderate or serious decline, despite promises from the Welsh Assembly to stabilise or reverse the situation, Wales Online revealed.

Species such as the curlew, yellow hammer and lapwing are among those suffering, largely due to modern food production methods which do not integrate with the birds' natural habits.

Stephen Bladwell, RSPB Cymru biodiversity manager, told the publication that the use of pesticides has a detrimental effect on invertebrates, which in turn affects bird populations.

He added that grazing practices are another problem: "Many species are dependent on livestock grazing to create suitable habitat conditions which do not fit with the management practices the majority of modern farms need to employ to remain a viable business."

The demolition and redevelopment of old buildings is also removing nest sites used by many migratory species such as swifts, Mr Bladwell commented.

Earlier this month, the RSPB called on the UK government to re-evaluate its environmental policies to ensure that the drive towards a low-carbon economy does not inadvertently damage the natural world.

Posted by Lauren Steadman