Research released from Durham University has revealed a possible link in the expansion of deer populations in the UK with a reduction in the bird population. Concentrating on the roe deer, it has been found that those sites with the highest abundance of the native animals had the lowest shrub layer vegetation and a lower number of birds.

 

It has been described as probably the first study to examine the possible impact of one specific breed of deer on its environment.

 

From the information gathered from thirty-five sites across Britain there is an apparent relationship between an increase in roe deer density and a decrease in shrub cover and diversity.

 

However, the research still requires further analysis to confirm whether it is the roe deer is causing the reduction in the shrub layer and therefore as a result causing the reduction in bird numbers, or whether roe deer are more strongly associated with woodlands that have open shrub layers.

 

So, whilst we enjoy the increased opportunity to see roe deer whilst out walking it maybe that we have to experience less birdsong as a result. So when out in the woods, even in summer months it’s always useful for us chaps to have a men’s fleece jacket to hand or a men’s sweatshirt if it turns a bit nippy, especially in the evening.