BREEDING BIRDS IN-FIELD BOUNDARIES IN AN AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPE

The breeding bird population of 117 field boundary transects in an agr icultural, non-wooded landscape was censused in 3 years. The presence of breeding species was related to characteristics of the boundaries, and to the surrounding land-use. Substantial differences in hedge heig ht preferences were recorded. A lack of continuity in site selection a mongst suitable boundaries suggested underpopulation, and either high turnover of birds or lack of site fidelity in most species. The manage ment of hedgerows and other field boundaries is discussed with a view to encourage the presence of breeding birds.