Facts About Curlews
Curlews are very interesting birds because they have really long curved bills, which allow them to forage for their diet of earthworms, shrimps, crabs and beetles; they’re also the largest wading bird you’ll find in the UK. The number of Curlews in the UK is declining, and bird conservationists are working on helping Curlews to survive and breed to prevent further decline in the species. Here are some interesting facts about Curlews.
Curlew habitat
The Curlew lives in several habitats, which include sheltered coasts and sand dunes. They also reside in marshes and grasslands. When breeding seasons arrive, the Curlew can fly to higher moorland areas where they will breed, making them easier to spot by bird watchers. One of the reasons the Curlew is said to be in decline is because of the lack of suitable habitats. Many moorland areas have been made into forests, and others have been drained and seeded to grow crops. This means the Curlews are struggling to find places to feed, breed and avoid natural predators.
Curlew breeding
Curlews, like all birds, lay eggs; they’re usually, but not always, a monogamous species that forms a strong bong before breeding. They nest on the open, bare ground where the mother lays two eggs, usually two days apart. The eggs take 26 days to hatch, and chicks leave the nest within two days of being hatched. Both parents will stay with the chicks until they’re ready to fly, which occurs when they’re between 36 and 42 days old. For the chicks to successfully reach the fledgling stage, they need a suitable habitat and source of food. They can easily be disturbed by people many miles away and will move their nest if they feel threatened.
Curlew location
You will need to visit the UK coastline to spot this rare and endangered bird. Morcombe bay and the Solway Firth are good locations to spot a Curlew in the wild. In addition, they are known to live in the Severn, Humber and Thames estuaries. In breeding season, you’re more likely to spot a Curlew on higher ground.
Curlew calls
A Curlew call sounds like the sound “cur-lee”, raising the tone on the second note. It’s a harsh sound that is quite distinguishable from other birds. Some people describe the curlew call as haunting and deathly, similar to that of a woman wailing for the loss of her child.
Curlew predators
The main predators of Curlews are foxes, crows, weasels and stoats. Some research shows that controlling these predators, in combination with other measures, can help prevent Curlew numbers from falling further and the species from becoming extinct. Predators will attack nests at night to steal the eggs and the young birds that can’t protect themselves. Curlews protect themselves with natural camouflage and by playing their nest in areas with good visibility. Many conservations are working to protect nests from predators to improve the curlew population numbers.
Endangered status
Curlews are endangered, their numbers are rapidly declining, and they need help from humans to prevent extinction. One way farmers can help Curlews is to avoid cutting meadows during the breeding season, especially if there is a Curlew nest present. They should be left alone until the chicks have fled the nest. Areas of wet ground are essential food sources for chicks; creating shallow pools can help provide food and help the chicks to survive. Land managers should also avoid planting trees where curlews are nesting or previously used sites. They prefer open areas to nest in as visibility is essential to enable them to see predators coming.
Curlews are fascinating birds that are struggling to survive, but steps and programmes are being taken to increase the population numbers. Experienced bird conservationists are advising and taking steps to protect Curlew nests. In some areas, they install protective fencing, and predators are legally culled in other areas. When eggs are found in dangerous locations, they’re often collected, and the chicks are raised in captivity until they’re large enough to be released back into the wild. If you notice any Curlew nests in your area, get in touch with a bird conservation organisation for advice on how to protect them.