Farming Today - 31/10/2026: Aphids, Rothbury Estate, Caged Hens, Pests
Download 31/10/2026: Aphids, Rothbury Estate, Caged Hens, Pests
The worst ever recorded infestation of aphids has made 85% of the UK's salad crops unusable, according to the British Leafy Salads Association. Milder winters mean the aphids aren't being destroyed and larger and larger so-called 'blooms' are being experienced. It's meant turning to European imports earlier in the year.
Government plans to phase out cages for laying hens could put British producers at a disadvantage if the UK continues to allow imports of eggs from caged birds. That's one of the conclusions of a new report from the Animal Welfare Committee which advises government. It warns that while cage free systems are better for hens, the transition to barn eggs, where hens are free to move about but not go outside, could be costly, complex and disruptive without careful management.
This week we've been looking at the pests that farmers have to deal with - from moles to mice to grey squirrels. In Surrey a vineyard has brought in a laser deterrent to try and saver its grapes. And we meet a rat catcher in Scotland.
The Wildlife Trusts have managed to raise the money to buy the entire nine and a half thousand acre Rothbury Estate in Northumberland. The Trusts say they aim to deliver nature recovery at a grand scale. There are 12 farms on the estate and some in the local farming community have expressed concern about the impact the new owners will have on those farming businesses.
Presented by Charlotte Smith and produced by Sally Challoner.
Published on Saturday, 31st October 2026.
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