The Breeding Bird Community of Chalk Grassland Scrub in the Chiltern Hills

Since the cessation of grazing and the reduction of Rabbit activity the chalk downland at the eastern end of the Chiltern Hills has been invaded by scrub, mainly hawthorn, which has attracted a uniquely diverse breeding bird community. Census studies show how different species are adapting to the various phases of the secondary succession towards woodland climax, and some broad lines of management are indicated.