Species

Species	Nightingale - Luscinia megachynchos, bird
Habitat	ASH MAPLE WOODLAND
Background and status	The nightingale's global population is centred in Europe but, between 1968 and 1991, the nightingale declined in range by 28%. This marked contraction in range is particularly evident in the north and west of the country (it has been lost as a breeding species in Devon and it is at very low population levels in Dorset and Somerset).
Main Threats	The loss of suitable breeding habitat through the decline coppicing, the under-planting of native woodlands with conifers, the conversion of coppice woodland to farmland and the removal of mature hedges. Although there is no direct evidence climatic factors may play a part as apparently suitable habitat has been abandoned.
Conservation and targets	In the medium term, to halt the decline in the range (450 10km squares) of the nightingale in Britain In the long term, to encourage the re-establishment of nightingales in areas from which they have disappeared. Current conservation action for the nightingale include encouraging active coppicing through national/local forestry initiatives, safeguarding sites through the SSSI and planning systems and the management of RSPB and other wildlife organisations including County Widllife Trusts and English Nature reserves.