Nightjars are thriving in the South Downs National Park, with 78 spotted—the highest count ever—due to five years of habitat restoration.

Nightjars, once threatened by habitat loss, are making a strong comeback in the South Downs National Park, with 78 individuals recorded—the highest number ever in the region—thanks to five years of habitat restoration and conservation efforts. The birds, which migrate from the Democratic Republic of Congo, rely on lowland heathlands for nesting, now protected through community and ranger-led initiatives. Despite their recovery, they remain on the amber conservation list due to past declines.