“Promising” Corncrake Population Rise Recorded on Isle of Canna

The National Trust for Scotland (NTS) has reported a “promising” rise in the population of corncrakes, considered one of Scotland’s most uncommon birds, on the isle of Canna. A recent survey conducted on the small Inner Hebridean island identified between 12 and 14 calling males, a significant increase from the one or two recorded in prior seasons. The species has experienced a decline, primarily due to intensive agricultural practices, and is designated by the trust as one of its 26 priority species. The NTS indicated that this “buoyant” population growth is a result of new farming methods designed to promote conservation. Tom Allen, an NTS ranger, stated: “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.“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.” Corncrakes undertake a migration from Africa to breed in areas such as Lewis, Harris, Mull, Orkney, and sections of the north-west Highland coast and Argyll. The method for counting these birds involves listening for the calls of the males. On the isle of Canna, five specific farmland areas have been designated for corncrakes. The NTS has set a goal to raise the corncrake population to 50 calling males, which would represent about 6% of the present UK population. The NTS’s “Plan for Nature” details six habitats and 26 species that are prioritised for conservation efforts. Angus Murray, the operations manager for Canna, emphasized the critical role of the island’s farming practices in achieving successful conservation. He stated: “We care for 76,000 hectares of countryside in Scotland and with our Plan for Nature, we have a clear focus on where to concentrate our efforts.”