Curlews are currently in decline in the UK and have been classified as a ‘Red List’ species since 2015 by the RSPB, indicating that it is a high conservation concern. The decline is largely due to habitat loss and degradation, as well as changes in land use practices and the impacts of climate change. The Breeding Bird Survey from the RSPB recorded significant declines in Scotland and England of 42 per cent between 1995 and 2008, while the British Trust for Ornithology highlighted in a 2006 survey that there was a rapid decline in Wales due to low breeding success.
The main driving force in the UK decline is the loss of breeding habitat. As the weather begins to warm in the spring and summer months, curlews migrate to breeding grounds of upland areas across Northern England and Scotland, constituting of wetlands, moors and meadows. This breeding habitat loss is largely due to changes in land use practices such as increased grazing pressure, drainage of wetlands, and some conversion of grassland and moorland to commercial use according to the GWCT.
However, research conducted by the RSPB in Northern Ireland has highlighted that high levels of predation on nests, with foxes and crows being the primary culprits, is likely another cause of the population decline. This finding is consistent with similar research conducted in other parts of Europe, indicating that increases in predator populations have also played a role in the curlew’s decline. Management of moorlands for red grouse has included control measures for foxes and crows in some upland areas, which may aid in maintaining breeding populations of curlews and preventing further declines. Climate change is also a growing concern, as it appears to be disrupting breeding and migration, impacting on food sources and nesting opportunities.
Impact and Importance
The decline of curlew populations has significant ecological and cultural impacts. Ecologically, the curlew is an important indicator species of healthy upland habitats, and its decline suggests wider ecological degradation in these areas. Curlews play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems, as they help to control invertebrate populations and disperse plant seeds. Their decline may result in ecological imbalances, which can negatively impact other species within the ecosystem.
Culturally, the curlew is a highly valued bird in the UK and has become an iconic symbol of the country’s upland landscapes. The bird’s distinctive call is an important part of the soundscape of these areas and is highly cherished by locals and visitors alike. The decline of curlew populations, therefore, threatens the cultural identity and heritage of these areas. In addition to this, the decline of curlew populations could also have small economic implications. The tourism industry, which relies heavily on the unique landscapes and wildlife of upland areas, could be negatively impacted by the loss of the curlew and other important bird species.
The UK has recognised the need for urgent action to protect the curlew and has implemented a range of conservation measures to help reverse the decline. The curlew is currently a protected bird in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. It is illegal to intentionally kill or harm a curlew, damage or destroy its nest, or disturb a nesting bird. In addition, the UK has designated some areas as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) specifically for the protection of breeding curlew and other wading bird species, and the UK government has committed to protecting the curlew under its Biodiversity 2020 strategy, which aims to halt the decline of biodiversity and restore ecosystems.
Relationship with Landowners
In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards ‘nature-friendly farming’ in the UK which seeks to balance the needs of farming with those of wildlife conservation by promoting sustainable agricultural practices that support biodiversity. To encourage these practices, the UK government has implemented various environmental farming and landscape initiatives.
The Environmental Land Management Scheme (ELMS) is a new initiative of the UK government’s agricultural policy. It aims to provide financial incentives for farmers to adopt sustainable land management practices that support the environment, such as improving soil health, planting trees and hedges, and creating habitats for wildlife.
Farming in Protected Landscapes (FIPL) is another program that encourages farmers and landowners to deliver environmental and cultural benefits in designated protected landscapes, such as national parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Through this initiative, farmers can receive payments for adopting land management practices that promote the conservation and enhancement of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and public access.
The Countryside Stewardship Scheme (CSS) is a program that provides financial incentives to farmers and landowners for implementing environmentally friendly land management practices, such as planting hedgerows, creating wildlife habitats, and managing flood risk.
Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) is a new approach that requires developers to ensure that new developments deliver a net gain in biodiversity compared to the previous development state. This is achieved by assessing the value of existing habitats and species and providing compensation for any losses incurred by the development.
By participating in these initiatives, farmers can contribute to the conservation of wildlife while also addressing concerns about the impact of agriculture on the environment. This approach recognises that sustainable agriculture and biodiversity can coexist and that by working together, farmers and conservationists can create a better future for both agriculture and wildlife.
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