Ever Fewer-More Boring?

An analysis of 'tens of millions of observations from volunteers' over the last 50 years (http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2013/may/21/uk-species-struggling-wildlife) has confirmed that much of the UK's wildlife is in serious decline. Struggling species (60% of those analysed were showing serious declines) range from the Freshwater pearl mussel, a variety of insects (including the Garden tiger moth), Atlantic salmon, Hedgehogs, Greater horseshoe bats and Lesser spotted woodpeckers. That is not to mention the plants on which some of these animals (diestly or indirectly) rely! A few species (like the Red kite and the European otter) seem to be doing well, largely as a result of serious and continued conservation efforts over extended periods (including changes in the Law) but most of the endangered species suffer from habitat destruction, pollution and/or disturbance. The analysis largely blames intense agriculture (although others will argue that it is needed to feed increased human populations and to facilitate the production of some 'biofuels') but urbanisation (a process likely to be intensified by a drive to create millions of 'affordable homes') and climate change must also play roles. Even a greater human participation in 'outdoor activities' (needed for our health) including even studying natural history can make it more difficult for certain species. And don't start me on gardeners with their introduced alien species and the release of feral 'pets'!