SKYLARKS are beginning to nest at this time of year and it provides a wonderful opportunity to see these magnificent crested birds doing their characteristic flight display on the Malvern Hills.

Due to visitor pressure and scrub encroachment there are not as many Skylarks on the Hills as in the past. However, a recent trip to a farm adjacent to the Hills revealed record numbers. Many farmers around the Hills are in Environmental Schemes and this can only help some of our threatened species over time.

ROB HAVARD, Conservation Officer.