Great Bustards are found on open grasslands and farmland from northern Morocco, South and Central Europe to temperate Central (Ukraine & Russia) and East Asia. European populations are mainly resident, with Asian populations migrating farther south in winter. It is estimated that there are now fewer than 35,000 Great Bustards left in the wild.
Globally, the Great Bustard is now at risk of extinction with Portugal and Spain accounting for 60% of the world's great bustard population. In 1996 it was listed as a Vulnerable species on the IUCN Red List, then endangered as of 2023. Our own population was once dispersed between the Wiltshire Downs, Salisbury Plain and Norfolk, but with hunting and the changing of farming practices, the last birds were recorded in 19th Century. The Great Bustard conservation group whose Patron is king Charles III was formed in 1998 by David Waters, whose aim was re-establishing a wild population. He initially hand reared the young chicks before releasing them onto Salisbury Plain, where today there is a small population of 100 birds. The Bustard is shown on the Wiltshire coat of arms and county flag showing its historical importance. In 2023 Downton Distillery partnered with the conservation group, to raise both awareness and monies for the charity. A spirit was created that uses 4 botanicals found within the Great Bustard diet, which can be foraged on Salisbury plain. The botanicals selected are wild rocket, yarrow, lucerne and red clover which provide unique notes within the spirit. A refill pack is currently under design, so no need to throw away your bottle. For every bottle purchased, £10 is donated to the charity, so they can continue to work with farmers and to protect the habit of this wonderful bird. The charity also run tours where you can see the wonderful dancing displays during the breeding season.
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