Source: RSPB

“A new installation at RSPB Old Moor, near Barnsley, is putting a spark into the future of Lapwing chicks on the reserve.

For many years, Lapwing chicks hatching on land that is now the nature reserve near Barnsley have had a hard time, with very few of them surviving the summer.  But a brand-new electric fence around their breeding area, paid for by Natural England, has helped to keep foxes away during the three months when the Lapwing youngsters are at their most vulnerable. 

This year has seen six young chicks survive, compared to just one the year before.  Without the fence, and with recent year’s poor survival rates, it could easily have taken 25 years to reach this staggering number.

Lapwings nest on the ground and face danger on all fronts, particularly when protecting their vulnerable young.  Adverse weather conditions and predation are just some of the factors threatening them, combined with a nationwide decline of the natural areas where they live.”