Wildlife Welfare

Wild Curlew Conservation Welfare

Curlews are one of the UK's most endangered breeding birds. Conservation management protecting nests and chicks during the breeding season has direct welfare and population benefits.

Key Facts

UK curlew breeding population has declined by 48% since the 1990s
Nest predation and agricultural disturbance are leading causes of breeding failure
Curlew chick welfare is particularly vulnerable during the first weeks after hatching
Agri-environment scheme payments incentivise curlew-friendly management
Rewilding and extensive grazing management creates suitable nesting habitat

Welfare Considerations

Curlew welfare during breeding is directly affected by nest disturbance and predation. Active conservation management including nest protection, predator management, and farming practice changes protects individual birds and this declining population.

What You Can Do

Report curlew nesting sites to wildlife organisations for nest protection
Support agri-environment schemes with curlew conservation measures
Avoid disturbing upland and lowland grassland areas during curlew nesting season
Learn about curlew ecology and the farming practices that protect them