Stone Curlew Conservation: Farmland's Most Secretive Bird

The stone curlew is one of Britain's most enigmatic farmland birds, returning each spring to breed on bare chalk and sandy soils, where its welfare depends critically on sympathetic farming practices.

Key Facts

Stone curlews winter in Africa and return to UK chalk downland and sandy Breckland from March
The UK population has recovered from a low of around 150 pairs in the 1980s to over 450 pairs today
They nest in shallow scrapes on bare ground and are highly sensitive to disturbance
Eggs and chicks are virtually invisible against bare chalk or sandy soil
Agricultural intensification destroyed much of their habitat in the mid-20th century
Recovery has been largely driven by RSPB and Natural England conservation agreements with farmers
Stone curlews have large eyes adapted for nocturnal hunting of invertebrates
They are closely monitored with many nests protected by temporary nest guards placed by conservation staff

Welfare Considerations

Stone curlews face welfare threats from agricultural operations during breeding season - ploughing, harrowing, and spraying near nests can destroy eggs and kill chicks. Nests can be accidentally destroyed by farm machinery before being identified. The conservation recovery of this species demonstrates the effectiveness of agri-environment schemes when farmers are properly supported and compensated for wildlife-friendly practices. Dog walkers and off-road vehicles disturbing breeding areas remain welfare concerns, as does predation from foxes, corvids, and stoats.

What You Can Do

Support agri-environment schemes that compensate farmers for stone curlew-friendly practices
Respect access restrictions around stone curlew breeding areas on chalk downland
Report suspected stone curlew nest sites to local RSPB or Natural England contacts
Support RSPB and Wildlife Trust campaigns for farmland bird recovery
Donate to organizations that fund nest protection schemes for ground-nesting birds