November 4th 2024.
The population of endangered corncrakes on the island of Canna has experienced a significant increase, much to the delight of experts. This rise in numbers is being credited to the efforts of the island's farmers, who have played a crucial role in supporting the conservation of this species.
For the first time in many years, the National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has conducted a formal monitoring of the corncrakes on Canna. The results have been nothing short of impressive, with at least 12-14 calling males being recorded this year. This is a stark contrast to the past few decades, where data collected by Bob Swann from the Highland Ringing Group showed a worrying trend of only one or two corncrakes on the island.
The success in the corncrake population can largely be attributed to the high nature value farming practices that have been implemented on the island. These methods have been specifically designed to support the conservation of this vulnerable species. In the past, the corncrake population across the UK has been in steady decline due to the intensification of agricultural methods. In response to this, the NTS has identified corncrakes as one of the 26 priority species in their Plan for Nature, which was announced earlier this year.
To further support the growth of the corncrake population, the NTS is working closely with crofters and farmers on the island. They are also directly managing the land in order to reach their goal of having 50 calling males on Trust land. This would account for approximately 6% of the current UK population. Canna has five designated areas of farmland specifically for corncrakes, which are expertly managed by Geraldine MacKinnon and the island farming team, with support from Tom Allen, the Trust's ranger on Canna.
Tom commented, "Canna Farm is a great example of prioritising both the production of high-quality livestock and creating a haven for wildlife and achieving success in both. By adapting our farming methods on Canna, we are supporting this species and its regeneration without making significant sacrifices to our other outputs. We're really heartened by the success of corncrake on our farmland, and we hope this is a sign that things are moving in the right direction. However, we know this is an endangered species and their numbers are especially prone to fluctuations, so we will continue to closely monitor our numbers and do what we can to support corncrake habitats."
The team on Canna has implemented farming practices that benefit biodiversity, including strategies to support breeding corncrakes. This includes extensive mixed livestock grazing of the hill ground in summer and no mowing of the grassland fields. These practices provide areas of undisturbed cover around the home farm for nesting birds. The Sanday crofters, who also manage and graze with native cattle, have reported high levels of corncrake activity on their crofts as well.
Angus Murray from NTS emphasized the importance of the unique farming practices on Canna, stating, "We undertake a very different and productive way of farming on Canna, which is vital for nature conservation. It supports a wide variety of species, but as one of our priorities, we are especially pleased to see the growth of our corncrake population."
This success story of the corncrake population on Canna serves as a reminder of the positive impact that sustainable and nature-friendly farming practices can have on endangered species. It also highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to protect and support these species for future generations to enjoy. To read more stories about wildlife, be sure to check out Scottish Field and subscribe to their latest issue.
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