How are Wales’ birds of prey faring?
That is a question that The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) hopes to answer, following the launch of its new citizen science project Cudyll Cymru aimed at enhancing our understanding of these dynamic birds of prey across the country.
As top predators, birds of prey, or raptors, are essential components of a healthy ecosystem. Due to their sensitivity to changes in habitat, prey availability and climate, they are often early indicators of shifts in our environment. For these reasons, their abundance and distribution can offer essential insights into the well-being of the wider landscape.
Since the launch of a new raptor monitoring project, Cudyll Cymru in autumn 2024, the response has been remarkable, with hundreds of volunteers across Wales signing up to take part. With the 2025 breeding season upon us, the first surveys will commence in earnest this spring.
This new long-term initiative is focused on four familiar and widespread raptor species: Buzzard, Kestrel, Red Kite, and Sparrowhawk, plus Raven — which while not technically a bird of prey, exhibits many similar traits.
BTO researchers are seeking yet more volunteers to help fill in some the gaps around the Welsh countryside. Participants only need to identify at least one of the key species and count the birds, nests, or territories in a chosen ‘patch.’
If required, training will be provided through bird identification videos, written guides, and 1-on-1 mentoring. Volunteers can contribute as little as three hours a month, making it accessible to many people who may wish to get involved but have limited time.
Charlotte Griffiths, Welsh Raptor Monitoring Coordinator – Project Lead, said: "The five species we're focusing on are significantly under-reported, and the huge number of people who have registered will provide crucial data on their breeding populations across Wales. We are thrilled to be supporting this future network of new volunteers: they will be instrumental in helping us secure the success of Welsh raptors."
For further information and to sign up, visit the project webpage at:
This project is funded by the Nature Networks Programme. It is being delivered by the Heritage Fund, on behalf of the Welsh Government.
Nature Networks is a three-year programme funded by Welsh Government which aims to address the nature emergency in Wales through increasing biodiversity, improving the condition of protected sites and enhancing the resilience and connectivity of our habitats and species. Nature Networks Programme
Contact details
Jon Carter (BTO Media Manager)
Mobile: 07585 440910
Email: press@bto.org
Viola Ross-Smith (Science Communications Manager)
Email:press@bto.org
Images are available for use alongside this News Release. These can be downloaded from this link for which you will need to enter the password 2025-05Cudyll. Alternatively, please contact press@bto.org quoting reference 2025-05.