Project – A study on hedgerows’ contribution to the conservation of farmland birds in Kuje Area Council.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Hedgerows have long been recognized as important components of agricultural landscapes, offering critical ecosystem services and biodiversity benefits. Their role in supporting farmland bird populations is especially significant, as they provide essential habitat for nesting, foraging, and shelter. Hedgerows are often a remnant feature in intensively farmed landscapes, offering an ecological refuge for a variety of species (Benton et al., 2003). Studies have demonstrated that these linear features, which are rich in plant diversity, support a wide range of invertebrates, which in turn serve as food for bird species (Robinson & Sutherland, 2002). The structural complexity of hedgerows—characterized by trees, shrubs, and herbaceous vegetation—creates a varied environment that can accommodate different bird species at different stages of their life cycles (Fuller et al., 2005).

The conservation value of hedgerows for farmland birds is particularly evident in landscapes where agricultural intensification has reduced the availability of other habitats. Farmland birds, such as the European Skylark (Alauda arvensis) and Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella), have been identified as species in decline across Europe, primarily due to habitat loss and the homogenization of agricultural land (Vickery et al., 2004). Hedgerows act as crucial refuges in such environments by providing suitable breeding sites, food resources, and safe corridors for movement between fragmented habitats (Donald et al., 2001). The linear nature of hedgerows is thought to facilitate connectivity between other semi-natural habitats, enhancing landscape permeability for birds, which is critical for maintaining population viability in fragmented agricultural systems (Weibull et al., 2003).

Hedgerow management practices are key to maximizing their ecological value for farmland birds. Research has shown that hedgerows that are managed with a combination of hedgelaying, coppicing, and allowing natural regeneration tend to have higher structural complexity, which is beneficial for bird populations (Hinsley et al., 1995). Dense, multi-layered hedgerows provide better cover for nesting birds, reduce predation risk, and offer a greater diversity of food resources. On the other hand, poorly managed hedgerows, such as those that are over-trimmed or allowed to become overly tall and sparse, may be less effective in supporting bird populations (Siriwardena et al., 2000). Therefore, sustainable management practices that maintain or enhance hedgerow structural diversity are critical for improving the habitat quality for farmland birds.

In addition to direct benefits, hedgerows play an indirect role in the conservation of farmland birds by promoting greater biodiversity across the wider agricultural landscape. The presence of hedgerows can reduce the negative impacts of agricultural intensification by mitigating soil erosion, improving water quality, and providing habitat for other wildlife such as pollinators and small mammals (Baudry et al., 2000). By fostering these broader ecological processes, hedgerows help maintain a more balanced agroecosystem that can support a variety of bird species. Moreover, hedgerows contribute to the overall resilience of the landscape, buffering wildlife from the impacts of climate change and extreme weather events (Henein et al., 1998).

The effectiveness of hedgerows in conserving farmland birds is not universal, however, and is influenced by a range of factors including landscape composition, hedgerow density, and proximity to other semi-natural habitats. Studies have shown that the positive effects of hedgerows on bird populations are stronger in landscapes where agricultural land is highly fragmented, or where other forms of habitat are scarce (Smart et al., 2006). In contrast, in landscapes with abundant woodland or grassland, the contribution of hedgerows to bird conservation may be less pronounced. The presence of larger and more diverse habitats often reduces the reliance on hedgerows for foraging and nesting (Benton et al., 2003). Therefore, while hedgerows are undoubtedly valuable for farmland birds, their role should be considered in the context of broader landscape management strategies.

In conclusion, hedgerows are a vital component of farmland bird conservation, offering crucial habitat in increasingly fragmented agricultural landscapes. The structural complexity of hedgerows supports a diverse range of species, with well-managed hedgerows providing the most significant benefits. However, their conservation value is influenced by broader landscape factors, and effective hedgerow management must be integrated into comprehensive land-use policies that prioritize biodiversity conservation across the agricultural matrix. Continued research into hedgerow management techniques, as well as landscape-scale conservation strategies, will be essential for ensuring the long-term survival of farmland bird species (Schmidt et al., 2016; Weegman et al., 2021).

1.2. Statement of the Problem

Farmland bird populations have been in significant decline across Europe and other parts of the world, primarily due to the intensification of agricultural practices. This phenomenon is characterized by the large-scale conversion of natural habitats into monocultures, increased pesticide and fertilizer use, and the loss of semi-natural habitats such as hedgerows, wetlands, and field margins. As a result, many bird species that once thrived in agricultural landscapes are now facing habitat fragmentation, food scarcity, and unfavorable nesting conditions. This decline threatens not only bird biodiversity but also the broader ecological stability of farmland ecosystems. Despite the growing recognition of the importance of maintaining biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, the effectiveness of conservation strategies remains under scrutiny. Hedgerows, often seen as one of the last refuges for farmland birds, are facing increased pressure due to agricultural expansion and inadequate management, raising concerns about their role in conserving these species.

Hedgerows are linear features that have traditionally served as habitats and corridors for wildlife in agricultural areas. These structures provide essential resources for farmland birds, including nesting sites, shelter from predators, and a diverse food supply in the form of insects, berries, and seeds. However, in recent decades, hedgerows have been subjected to intensive management practices, such as frequent cutting, excessive pruning, and clearing for larger fields or agricultural infrastructure. Such practices compromise the structural complexity of hedgerows, reducing their effectiveness as bird habitats. Furthermore, hedgerows are often isolated and fragmented within intensively farmed landscapes, limiting their capacity to support viable populations of farmland birds. Given the essential role that hedgerows play in supporting biodiversity, it is crucial to understand how their management can be optimized to better serve farmland bird conservation.

Despite the recognized importance of hedgerows, there is a lack of consistent and comprehensive research on the specific contributions they make to farmland bird conservation under varying management conditions. Most studies on hedgerows and birds focus on particular species or regions, without offering a broader understanding of the landscape-level dynamics at play. For example, the relationship between hedgerow characteristics—such as species composition, age, and management practices—and bird diversity has yet to be fully explored. Additionally, while hedgerows provide benefits to birds, their role in the wider agricultural matrix is not always well understood. It is unclear how hedgerows interact with other elements of farmland ecosystems (e.g., field margins, wetlands, and woodland patches) to influence bird populations. Without a clear, evidence-based understanding of these dynamics, it is difficult to design effective conservation strategies that leverage the full potential of hedgerows.

One of the critical challenges in addressing the conservation of farmland birds is the lack of appropriate incentives and policies to encourage sustainable hedgerow management. While some agrienvironment schemes offer financial support for the planting or restoration of hedgerows, they often do not adequately address the specific management needs of these habitats to support bird populations. Hedgerows that are poorly managed or neglected may fail to provide the structural complexity needed for birds, such as dense shrub layers for nesting or a continuous supply of food resources throughout the year. Moreover, policies that focus only on the restoration or creation of new hedgerows without considering the condition of existing ones overlook the importance of management practices in enhancing the habitat value of these features. A deeper understanding of the relationship between hedgerow management and bird conservation is essential for informing policy decisions that can support sustainable farming practices and biodiversity conservation simultaneously.

Another gap in the existing research is the integration of hedgerow conservation into broader landscape management frameworks. Hedgerows alone cannot sustain farmland bird populations if they are isolated within landscapes that are otherwise inhospitable to wildlife. Fragmentation of habitats, the dominance of monocultures, and the lack of landscape connectivity are all factors that reduce the potential of hedgerows to serve as effective refuges for birds. There is a need for studies that examine how hedgerows contribute to biodiversity conservation at the landscape scale and how they can be integrated into larger habitat networks. Such an approach would allow for the identification of key areas where hedgerows can be most effectively restored or enhanced, as well as the identification of complementary habitats that could increase the overall connectivity and ecological resilience of agricultural landscapes.

The urgency of addressing the decline in farmland bird populations cannot be overstated. As ecosystems lose biodiversity, the services they provide—such as pest control, pollination, and seed dispersal—are also compromised, which can have significant consequences for agricultural productivity and ecosystem health. Given the importance of hedgerows in supporting farmland birds, it is essential to investigate how these habitats can be better conserved and managed to provide the maximum benefit for bird populations. This research should not only focus on the structural characteristics of hedgerows but also consider the broader landscape context, the interactions between different habitat types, and the socioeconomic factors that influence land management decisions. By developing a more comprehensive understanding of hedgerow ecology and its role in farmland bird conservation, it will be possible to design more effective and sustainable conservation strategies that contribute to both biodiversity preservation and the long-term sustainability of agricultural landscapes.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine hedgerows’ contribution to the conservation of farmland birds in kuje area council. (Biology). The specific objectives of the study are:

1. To assess the diversity and abundance of farmland bird species in the study area.
2. To determine the role of hedgerows in providing habitat and resources for farmland birds.
3. To investigate the impact of hedgerow management practices on farmland bird populations.
4. To evaluate the effectiveness of hedgerows as conservation measures for farmland birds.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the diversity and abundance of farmland bird species in the study area?
2. How do hedgerows contribute to providing habitat and resources for farmland birds?
3. What is the impact of different hedgerow management practices on farmland bird populations?
4. How effective are hedgerows as conservation measures for farmland birds?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Hedgerows’ does not contribute to the conservation of farmland birds

H1: Hedgerows’ contribute to the conservation of farmland birds

1.6. Significance of the Study

The decline of farmland bird populations in many parts of the world is a critical environmental issue, particularly in regions where intensive agricultural practices have significantly altered natural habitats. In Kuje Area Council, located in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) of Nigeria, agricultural practices are expanding rapidly, leading to habitat fragmentation and a loss of biodiversity. This study’s significance lies in its potential to provide a comprehensive understanding of how hedgerows, which remain a common feature in some agricultural landscapes, can contribute to the conservation of farmland birds in the region. The findings of this study will help elucidate the ecological role of hedgerows in the Kuje area and offer insights into how they can be managed to support biodiversity, particularly farmland birds, in a rapidly changing agricultural landscape.

Farmland birds, such as the Yellow Wagtail (Motacilla flava) and Common Bulbul (Pycnonotus barbatus), are vital components of agroecosystems, helping with pest control and seed dispersal. However, due to the intensification of farming practices and the subsequent loss of natural habitats, these species have seen significant population declines in many parts of the world, including Nigeria. Understanding how hedgerows can help mitigate this loss by offering birds crucial resources such as nesting sites, food, and shelter is therefore a major focal point of this study. By examining the role of hedgerows in supporting local bird populations, the research will contribute to a broader conservation framework that aims to protect farmland biodiversity in areas facing similar environmental challenges.

This study will also provide crucial data on the relationship between hedgerow characteristics—such as species composition, structure, and management practices—and the diversity and abundance of farmland bird species in Kuje. Although hedgerows are commonly assumed to be important for wildlife conservation, there is limited research on their effectiveness under different management practices, especially in the context of tropical and sub-tropical climates like that of Nigeria. By exploring these factors in Kuje Area Council, this research will fill a significant knowledge gap and provide evidence-based recommendations on how hedgerows should be managed to maximize their benefits for farmland bird conservation. Such insights will be crucial for developing targeted conservation interventions in other parts of Nigeria and similar regions in West Africa.

The study will also contribute to the development of more sustainable farming practices in Kuje and surrounding areas. In many rural regions, farmers often view wildlife conservation and agricultural productivity as competing priorities. However, by demonstrating how hedgerows can support biodiversity without compromising agricultural output, this study may encourage farmers to adopt more ecologically friendly practices. The findings could help inform local policies and agricultural extension programs aimed at promoting agroecological practices, which integrate biodiversity conservation into farming systems. This could be particularly important for areas like Kuje, where agricultural expansion is expected to continue, and where the balance between agricultural development and biodiversity conservation needs to be carefully managed.

Furthermore, the study’s significance lies in its potential to guide local and national policy development regarding farmland bird conservation and agroecosystem management. As part of Nigeria’s broader commitment to sustainable development and biodiversity conservation, understanding the role of hedgerows in promoting farmland bird populations could inform national strategies aimed at mitigating biodiversity loss. The results could be used to advocate for the inclusion of hedgerow management in national environmental policies or conservation programs, such as the Nigerian National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP), as well as local conservation initiatives in Kuje and similar agro-ecological zones.

Finally, this study will also have broader ecological and social implications. By investigating the link between hedgerows and farmland bird conservation, it will contribute to a greater understanding of the complex relationship between human land use and biodiversity conservation. It will highlight how agricultural practices, when carefully managed, can serve as a means of preserving natural resources and ecosystem services. In addition, promoting the conservation of farmland birds through hedgerow management could foster a sense of environmental stewardship among local farmers and communities. This is particularly important in Kuje, where community-based conservation efforts could be an effective way of promoting sustainable agriculture and wildlife protection. Ultimately, the outcomes of this study could serve as a model for other areas in Nigeria and West Africa, helping to shape a more sustainable and biodiversity-friendly agricultural future.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines hedgerows’ contribution to the conservation of farmland birds in kuje area council. (Biology)

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

Hedgerows: Hedgerows are dense rows of shrubs, trees, and other vegetation planted along the boundaries of fields, roads, or properties. In agricultural landscapes, they often act as natural barriers or fences. Hedgerows can vary in structure, ranging from single-species to diverse, multi-layered vegetation, and are important for supporting a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, insects, and mammals. They provide vital ecological functions such as habitat for nesting, food sources, corridors for animal movement, and protection from soil erosion.

Contribution: In this context, “contribution” refers to the role or impact that a particular factor, feature, or element plays in a larger system or process. For example, the contribution of hedgerows to farmland bird conservation refers to how these structures help support and sustain bird populations by providing essential resources like food, shelter, and breeding sites. In ecological studies, contribution is often used to describe how a particular habitat or intervention enhances biodiversity or the health of ecosystems.

Conservation: Conservation refers to the protection, preservation, management, and restoration of ecosystems, species, and natural resources. The goal of conservation is to ensure the long-term health and sustainability of natural environments, preventing the loss of biodiversity and mitigating the negative impacts of human activities. Conservation efforts can include habitat restoration, the creation of protected areas, species protection programs, and the promotion of sustainable land-use practices.

Farmland Birds: Farmland birds are bird species that primarily inhabit agricultural landscapes. These birds rely on agricultural habitats for food, nesting, and shelter. Farmland birds often face challenges due to the intensification of farming practices, which can lead to habitat loss, pesticide exposure, and food scarcity. Examples of farmland birds include species like the Skylark (Alauda arvensis), Yellowhammer (Emberiza citrinella), and Barn Owl (Tyto alba). Conservation of farmland birds is crucial to maintaining biodiversity and the ecological health of agricultural ecosystems.

Biology: Biology is the scientific study of life and living organisms, including their structure, function, growth, evolution, and interactions with their environment. It encompasses various subfields such as ecology, genetics, physiology, and behavior. In the context of this topic, biology focuses on understanding the relationships between species (like farmland birds) and their environments (such as hedgerows), including how these interactions influence the survival, reproduction, and overall well-being of organisms. Biology provides the foundation for studying ecological processes and developing conservation strategies.

Project – A study on hedgerows’ contribution to the conservation of farmland birds in Kuje Area Council.