PATTERN IN THE DISTRIBUTION OF BRITAIN UPLAND BREEDING BIRDS

We use a quantitative approach to identify fifty-eight species of bird s which breed in association with the British uplands. Similarities an d differences between this list of 'upland birds' and previous more su bjective lists are discussed. We then study pattern in the distributio n of these species throughout the uplands. A high degree of regionaliz ation is found, and interpreted in terms of the habitat composition of different regions, and known bird-habitat associations. Different reg ions differ widely, not only with respect to their bird species compos ition, but also in the number and conservation importance of their upl and bird assemblages. In particular, we contrast the uplands of Wales and England with those of Scotland. The Welsh and English uplands cont ain a relatively low number of upland bird assemblages and are divided into a few large regions, each dominated by a single assemblage type. In comparisons the Scottish uplands are more varied, both in terms of the total number of assemblages, and the range of assemblages found a t a small scale. The study provides a means of viewing any upland regi on within the national context.