Help save the song of the skylark

Every year, in early spring, a familiar evocative song returns to the grasslands of Richmond and Bushy Parks.

2 min read · 7 March 2024

The rise and fall of the skylark song as they feed, nest, and defend territory is a sound that has inspired people for centuries.

Once an extremely common sight on the open ground, the skylark is now a red-listed species signifying their dramatic decline in numbers. We’re asking everyone in Richmond and Bushy Parks to help to as much as possible to help protect skylark in the parks, both during breeding season and all year round.

The skylark

The skylark is a small, streaked brown bird, larger than a sparrow but smaller than a starling. It has a white-sided tail, and the rear edge of the wing is also white and visible in flight.

These ground-nesting birds breed from February to September and advertise their territories by a spectacular song-flight, during which the bird rises almost vertically with rapid wingbeats, hovering for several minutes and then parachuting down. Song flights of up to one hour have been recorded, and the birds can reach 1,000 feet before descending.

Dustbathing in a molehill

Problems facing skylarks

Due to pressure from increasing visitor numbers, the skylark population within Richmond Park and Bushy Park has declined rapidly.

It is predicted that without urgent action, this species may be lost from the parks. This would result in the loss of two of the closest populations of skylark to central London.

Among the wildflowers

Safeguarding skylarks: Protection measures in the Royal Parks

In response to the skylark's alarming decline, the Royal Parks have implemented targeted
protection measures to safeguard these melodious birds, particularly during their vulnerable breeding season from February to September. Designated skylark protection zones within Richmond and Bushy Parks signify a concerted effort to preserve their dwindling numbers. Visitors are encouraged to observe these areas with respect, keeping dogs on leads and sticking to specified paths to prevent disturbing the skylarks' ground nests. These actions are essential in providing the skylarks a sanctuary to feed, nest, and thrive, ensuring the continuation of their iconic song across the parks.

What you can do to help

Richmond and Bushy Parks have designated skylark protection zones (see highlighted zones on the downloadable maps, below) where dogs must be kept on leads and visitors are asked to keep to certain paths.

This is to prevent anything disturbing nesting skylarks and trampling their nests, to try and improve breeding success and help protect this ‘red-listed’ threatened species.