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Royal Estate Aids Bird Recovery
30 Oct
Summary
- Sandringham estate supports turtle dove release programs.
- UK turtle dove population declined by 98% since 1994.
- Conservation efforts include captive breeding and habitat support.
King Charles's Sandringham estate is a key partner in a conservation effort to revive the dwindling turtle dove population in the UK. This initiative saw the release of 100 captive-bred birds in late spring and early summer 2024, with an additional 135 young doves released in September 2024. These releases are part of a broader program that distributed 606 young doves across the UK. The Sandringham Estate also provided crucial financial backing, donating £6,000 and supplying bird feed.
The turtle dove, Britain's smallest native dove, has faced a severe population crash, with numbers plummeting by 98% between 1994 and 2024. Factors contributing to this decline include habitat loss, reduced food sources, and risks during migration. Captive breeding programs, like the one supported by Sandringham, aim to bolster wild populations. However, debates exist within conservation circles regarding the effectiveness and potential risks of such releases.
The Sandringham Estate's landscape, with its coppices, meadows, and farmland, is considered suitable for turtle doves, offering vital feeding and nesting opportunities. The estate's involvement underscores the significant role private landowners can play in vital wildlife conservation efforts. The Turtle Dove Captive Breeding to Release Project, established in 2018, is a central component of these recovery plans.
