The Decline of the Curlew and the Path to Recovery
Curlews, with their evocative calls that embody the wild spirit of the landscapes they inhabit, are facing an alarming decline across their ranges. Renowned for their long, down-curved bills and large, brown bodies, curlews are more than just a bird; they are integral to the ecological balance, acting as indicators of healthy wetlands and grasslands. The Curlew is the largest European wading bird, found on estuaries in winter and moors in summer.
This short article aims to help to unravel the complex reasons behind their decline, spotlight the critical role they play in our ecosystems, and outline actionable steps that can help reverse this trend. By fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation, we can mobilise a concerted effort to ensure that the haunting call of the curlew continues to grace our natural world.

Unravelling the Reasons Behind the Curlew’s Decline
The expansion of agricultural lands and urban development has led to significant losses in the natural habitats curlews rely on for nesting and foraging. Wetlands have been drained, and grasslands have been converted to cropland or urban areas, leaving curlews with nowhere to call home. This loss of habitat not only reduces their breeding grounds but also diminishes their food sources, impacting their ability to rear their young successfully. Increased predation pressure, particularly from foxes, has been identified as a significant factor in the decline of curlew populations. Changes in land use and human activities have led to an imbalance, where predators thrive at the expense of ground-nesting birds like the curlew. The eggs and chicks are particularly vulnerable, resulting in low survival rates that cannot sustain the curlew population. Climate change also poses a pervasive threat, altering the delicate balance of the ecosystems curlews depend on. Changes in temperature and precipitation patterns affect the timing and availability of food, making it harder for curlews to breed successfully. Additionally, rising sea levels and extreme weather events threaten their coastal and wetland habitats, further exacerbating the challenges they face.
The curlew was added to the UK red list in December 2015, and it is argued to be the most pressing bird conservation priority in the UK.
A Cry for Help: Ways to help Curlew Recovery
Conservation efforts must prioritise the protection and restoration of wetlands, grasslands, and other critical habitats. Initiatives such as re-wetting drained wetlands, promoting sustainable farming practices that coexist with wildlife, and setting aside protected areas can provide curlews with the space they need to thrive. Implementing effective predator management strategies is crucial to ensuring the survival of curlew chicks. This should include targeted control of fox populations in key breeding areas and the use of protective measures like fencing to safeguard nests. Such interventions need to be carefully managed to balance the ecosystem and avoid unintended consequences. Combatting climate change is a global imperative that directly impacts the survival of curlews and all wildlife.
By reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting renewable energy, and advocating for climate-resilient land management practices, we can mitigate the adverse effects on curlew habitats. Conservationists and policymakers must work together to implement strategies that address the root causes of climate change, ensuring a stable environment for curlews and countless other species.

Beacon of Hope for the Curlew
Ongoing projects such as the restoration of peat bogs and wetland areas in the UK are showing promising results, by offering curlews and other wildlife renewed hope. These initiatives not only improve the quality and availability of habitat but also enhance biodiversity and ecosystems, demonstrating the tangible benefits of conservation efforts. In areas where targeted predator control measures have been implemented, there have been notable increases in curlew breeding success. By protecting vulnerable nests from predation, these programmes have contributed to the gradual recovery of local populations, underscoring the importance of balanced, science-based management practices. The fight to save the curlew has brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including conservation groups, governmental agencies, and local communities. Collaborative projects focused on habitat protection, research, and public engagement have improved the impact of conservation efforts, highlighting the power of unity in addressing environmental challenges.
Through science-based conservation strategies and public engagement, there is hope for the curlew’s future.
Charities Supporting Curlews

The plight of the curlew is a stark reminder of the fragility of our natural world and the urgent need for concerted conservation action. By understanding the causes of their decline and supporting efforts to protect and restore their habitats, we can turn the tide for curlews and other endangered species.