Wildlife

Wild Curlew: Breeding Habitat Management and Nest Protection

Curlew populations are in rapid decline and require active nest protection and habitat management during the breeding season.

Key Facts

UK curlew numbers declined by 48% between 1994 and 2019
Nest predation by foxes, corvids, and hedgehogs is a primary cause of breeding failure
Predator management around curlew nesting areas significantly improves chick survival
Upland drainage reversal and reduced grazing intensity restore curlew nesting habitat

Welfare Considerations

Curlew chick death from predation, weather, and agricultural operations causes direct welfare harm. Active nest protection through predator management and sensitive agricultural practices increases individual survival rates and reduces population-level suffering.

What You Can Do

Support Curlew Country and RSPB curlew recovery programmes
Advocate for agri-environment funding for curlew breeding habitat management
Avoid disturbance in upland and coastal curlew breeding areas in spring