Flourishing Habitats and Wild Bird Populations

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Budleigh in Devon, Farm2Fork is not just a haven for organic cattle, sheep, and poultry—it’s also a thriving sanctuary for local wildlife. Our commitment to organic and regenerative farming practices creates a rich, biodiverse environment that attracts a variety of species, fostering a harmonious coexistence between agriculture and nature.

At Farm2Fork, we work closely with our landlord, Clinton Devon Estates, who regularly conducts wildlife surveys on the farm. These surveys focus on bird populations, species diversity, and the overall health of the ecosystem. The results demonstrate the significant progress we’ve made in just over a year, showcasing the positive impact our farming practices have had on local biodiversity. These insights guide our land management decisions and conservation efforts, helping us maintain a balanced ecosystem where both wildlife and agriculture can thrive.

Since moving to Dalditch Farm, we’ve witnessed a remarkable increase in wild bird numbers, a key indicator of overall ecological health. In the most recent survey, three red-listed bird species—Linnet, House Martin, and Greenfinch—were detected. As our farming practices continue to regenerate the soil and diversify the flora and fauna, we hope to support even more endangered species.

In just one year, the number of bird species on the farm has increased by 50%, from 21 in January 2023 to 30 in January 2024. Among the most exciting findings is a large flock of Linnets, both adults and juveniles, using the farm as a feeding site after nesting in the surrounding heathland. According to the Game and Wildlife Conservation Trust, Linnets and their chicks rely heavily on seeds, with dandelion seeds in pastures being particularly important.

Birds as Indicators of Environmental Health

Birds are highly sensitive to environmental changes, making them valuable "indicator species." At Dalditch Farm, we monitor various aspects of bird life, including species range, population numbers, and feeding and breeding behaviour. A diverse bird community is a strong indicator of habitat quality, while less biodiverse environments tend to favour generalist species. The vibrant avian community at Dalditch Farm is a testament to the thriving habitat supported by our regenerative agriculture practices.

Clinton Devon Estates’ long-standing commitment to conservation aligns perfectly with our approach at Dalditch Farm. Ollie White, our founder, emphasizes that "everything we do at Farm2Fork is guided by the soil, the pastures, and the animals, with biodiversity at the heart of it."

Regenerative Farming Practices

At Dalditch Farm, we implement regenerative farming techniques, organic methods, and habitat restoration projects to preserve the region’s natural heritage. By rotating our cattle and poultry across different pastures and allowing long rest periods between grazing, we avoid overgrazing and promote natural plant regeneration. This improves pasture quality and supports a diverse range of insects and small mammals, which in turn attract more bird species and other wildlife.

Our cattle and sheep are 100% grass-fed, and our poultry are pasture-raised with supplements of organic grains. Our strict avoidance of synthetic chemicals protects the local ecosystem, allowing beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to thrive, contributing to the pollination of wildflowers.

A Sustainable Model

At Farm2Fork, our mission goes beyond producing high-quality organic meat. We are dedicated to creating a sustainable farming model that respects and enhances the environment. As we look to the future, we are excited to continue our journey in sustainable farming and wildlife conservation, demonstrating that farming can be a powerful force for good in the natural world.