BTO Research Reports are scientific papers that have been self-published by the BTO. The following is a full list of the published BTO research reports. Most are free to download, and links to Abstracts are included where possible.
Numbers missing from the list are those allocated but which were never produced or which have not been published. BTO recognises that, particularly in respect of commercially sensitive cases, a period of confidentiality is appropriate for some projects. However, in the interests of scientific development and dissemination of information, we encourage clients to permit publication as soon as it is reasonable to do so.
- If you wish to purchase a physical copy of a report please contact researchreports@bto.org.
- More information about our Annual Service reports to JNCC 1992-2005.
Assessment of recent Hen Harrier population trends in England through population modelling
This study uses a population modelling approach to explore the effects of changes in rates of productivity, survival, and settlement on population growth in the English population of Hen Harriers.

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Estimating the distribution of reed Phragmites australis in Britain demonstrates challenges of remotely sensing rare habitat types at large spatial scales
Author: Davies, J.G., Dytham, C., Robinson, R.A. & Beale, C.M.
Published: 2024
One of the primary determinants of bird distribution is habitat. So having a good understanding of which habitats are where, how good their quality is, and how their extent is changing over time are important first steps in devising conservation plans.
27.09.24
Papers

Trial of the use of silicone cord leg-loop harnesses on Black-legged Kittiwake during the 2023 breeding season
Author: O’Hanlon, N.J., Clewley, G.D., Davies, J.G., Johnston, D.T., Booth Jones, K.A., Green, R.M.W., Weston, E., Humphreys, E.M. & Cook, A.S.C.P.
Published: 2024
This report describes a follow-up field trial during the 2023 breeding season to assess the feasibility of using silicone cord for the leg-loop harness attachment of devices to Kittiwakes on a sample size of six individuals.
23.09.24
Reports Research reports

Protected areas, drought, and grazing regimes influence fire occurrence in a fire-prone Mediterranean region
Author: Kirkland, M., Atkinson, P.W., Aliácar, S., Saavedra, D., De Jong, M.C., Dowling, T.P.F. & Ashton-Butt, A.
Published: 2024
BTO research demonstrates how protected areas and management can contribute to controlling wildfires in Portugal.
13.09.24
Papers

Differential changes in the morphology and fuel loads of obligatory and partial migrant passerines over half a century in Britain
Author: Pickett, H.R.W., Robinson, R.A. & Nudds, R.L.
Published: 2024
Populations of many species will be affected by climate change, but migratory species are expected to be affected more than most, in part because change can occur on both the breeding and non-breeding grounds, but at different rates.
13.09.24
Papers

Influence of wind on kittiwake Rissa tridactyla flight and offshore wind turbine collision risk
Author: Davies, J.G., Boersch-Supan, P.H., Clewley, G.D., Humphreys, E.M., O’Hanlon, N.J., Shamoun-Baranes, J., Thaxter, C.B., Weston, E. & Cook, A.S.C.P.
Published: 2024
Climate change presents a major threat to populations of seabirds such as the Kittiwake, a Red-listed species of conservation concern. However, one mitigation approach to climate change – exploiting renewable energy through offshore wind farms – itself poses a potential threat to Kittiwakes, partly due to collision risk with turbine blades.
09.09.24
Papers
