The population status of breeding Twite Linaria flavirostris in the UK in 2013

ABSTRACTCapsule: The second national survey of Twite Linaria flavirostris estimated a UK breeding population of 7831 pairs (95% confidence limits: 5829–10 137) in 2013.Aims: To estimate the breeding population size of Twite in the UK and constituent countries and to calculate change since the 1999 survey.Methods: Counts of Twite were made on three visits between May and July across a stratified random sample of 1-km squares in England, Scotland and Wales. In Northern Ireland, a complete census was made of the known range and adjacent 1-km squares with suitable habitat. Field surveys involved walking line transects 200 m apart and, in suitable nesting habitat, making 5-minute stops at 100 m intervals to scan and listen for Twite.Results: The UK population of Twite was estimated at 7831 pairs (95% CL: 5829–10 137). This was 21% lower but not significantly different from the 1999 survey estimate. Scotland held 98% of the UK population (7640, 95% CL: 5629–9954). There were an estimated 164 pairs (95% CL: 76–2...