The Farmland Wildlife Survey –raising awareness of wildlife habitats.

End of Project ReportThe Farmland Wildlife Survey aims to support the wildlife objectives of the REPS and communicate a greater awareness of wildlife to farmers. The Farmland Wildlife Survey was conducted on 19 farms that form part of the national network of demonstration farms for farmers who participate in the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS). At each farm, an ecologist conducted a survey that identified existing wildlife areas on the farm. The survey highlighted the existing management practices that were beneficial to wildlife, and pointed out any management practices that could be changed or adopted to be more beneficial. The Wildlife Survey also focused on common wildlife habitats on each farm, such as hedgerows, ponds, watercourses, field margins, woodland, mature trees and farmyard features of wildlife value. The attitudes and beliefs of the farmers were investigated with a short questionnaire. All farmers in the project farmed with some degree of sensitivity and consideration for wildlife and farm habitats. While most of the farmers were quite aware of farmland wildlife before joining REPS, most credited REPS for an increased awareness of the needs of wildlife in the farmed landscape. Most of the farmers believed there is a need for improved provision of information about identity and management of farmland habitats and wildlife. The outcome of the farm survey was provided to each farmer as a short report with colour pictures of relevant wildlife features on their farm. The results of the survey were also summarised in a leaflet for distribution to farmers who visit the REPS demonstration farms. Feedback on the farm visit or in subsequent comment cards was very positive. REPS planners have found the reports useful and interesting. In addition, some Teagasc REPS advisors are using the reports as part of farmer training visits to the demonstration farms. In this way, the Farmland Wildlife Survey complements wildlife objectives of the REPS and promotes a greater awareness of wildlife amongst farmers.The Heritage Council