Wildlife Conservation

Wild Cornish Chough Recovery

Choughs returned to breed naturally in Cornwall in 2001 after an absence of 50 years. Recovery of this charismatic red-billed crow depends on coastal grazing management and protection from disturbance.

Key Facts

Choughs require short-grazed coastal turf with abundant soil invertebrate prey
UK choughs were confined to Wales, Scotland and Ireland through most of the 20th century
Cornish coastal National Trust land management has supported the growing population
Choughs are sensitive to disturbance at nesting sites and require protection during breeding
The Cornish chough is an iconic species with deep cultural significance in Cornwall

Welfare Considerations

Chough welfare depends on coastal turf management that maintains access to soil invertebrates through year-round grazing. Disturbance during breeding causes nest abandonment with direct welfare consequences for chicks.

What You Can Do

Support RSPB and National Trust chough conservation work in Cornwall and Wales
Respect exclusion zones around chough nest sites during breeding season
Record chough sightings to support population monitoring efforts