Potential Impacts of Gamebird Release on Habitats and Invertebrates in Protected Sites

Natural England is delivering a piece of research for Defra, to investigate the potential impacts of releasing gamebirds (predominantly pheasants, also potentially red-legged partridges) on habitats and invertebrate species in protected sites. Predominantly these sites will be Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) and Special Protection Areas (SPAs) but may also include Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs).<br/><br/>Natural England is seeking a contractor to deliver all aspects of planning, fieldwork, analysis and reporting. The project will cover two fieldwork seasons (spring / summer 2023 and 2024) across approximately 40 sites distributed across England. It is anticipated the study will include 20 sites with gamebird rearing and release activities and 20 paired control sites. Methodologies are largely developed and will be specified within the Request For Quotation, but will include:<br/><br/>• Measurements of soil chemistry indicative of any eutrophication effects<br/>• Measurements of ground vegetation, including tree growth and species composition<br/>• Measurements of tree flora (e.g. bryophytes) indicative of air pollution effects<br/>• Measurements of key invertebrate species within habitats close to gamebird activities<br/><br/>Following successful fieldwork campaigns, the contractor will be required to analyse data within an appropriate statistical framework, and report to Natural England. Additional information: Expected Timeline: <br/>ITT to be published by 25 November 2022<br/>Proposals due by 23 December 2022<br/>Project start by 1 March 2023 <br/>Update reports Throughout project<br/>Steering group Throughout project<br/>Full report by end November 2024<br/>Defra would welcome feedback from the market to gauge the level of interest from potential bidders for the project.