Even wildlife prefers the capital

Wildlife is being driven from the countryside in such huge numbers that suburban gardens may now be a better bet for spotting rare animal breeds than many farmers' fields, a report claims today.

Intensive agricultural techniques, including the use of pesticides, are blamed for a drop in the number and diversity of creatures now found on arable farmland. But the number of mammals, birds and insect species now thriving in the cities is growing significantly.

The Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) claims building projects on greenfield sites may enhance our wildlife, not destroy it.

TCPA director Gideon Amos said: "The evidence has convinced us for the first time development in the countryside can be good for wildlife and the environment."

The Sheffield University, English Nature and British Trust for Ornithology report said 400,000 pairs of swifts nest in gardens. The dormouse and English bluebells also do well.