We are witnessing nature falling silent amid a dramatic decline of native birds, experts say.

Farmland birds that “define Britain’s countryside” are on the brink of being lost forever, a wildlife charity has warned.

Experts at Wiltshire Wildlife Trust say species including lapwings, snipes, and grey partridges have seen declines of about 90% in some areas where their habitats have been destroyed or damaged.

The charity is now hoping to raise £20,000 to restore hedgerows and other habitats in Braydon Forest, which runs between Wiltshire and Gloucestershire.