Curlew

Curlew

Scientific Name: ( Numenius arquata )

Europe’s largest wader, the Curlew, is a bird that certainly fits the bill. They are typically found feeding along the coast, in tidal mudflats and nearby farmland during the winter months before migrating to upland habitat for the breeding season.

Curlews are easily identified by their large size and their incredible curved bills. Their long bills are full of nerves and are sensitive to pressure which makes them well adapted to detecting the movements of prey animals underground. Along the coast they can be seen plunging their bills into the soft mud and sand to pluck out marine foods such as crabs, rag worms, shrimps, cockles and snails.

Curlews can be identified by their size, their unique down-curved bill, long legs and evocative ‘cur-lee’ call. Despite being our largest wading bird, they are masters of camouflage, and you can often hear them before you spot them. Their feathers are mottled brown and grey and they have long, bluish legs.

The Curlew is a UK Red List species, threatened by human disturbance, shellfish harvesting (by hand in coastal intertidal habitats), changes in land use, the draining of wetlands, increased predation, and intensive farming practices on their breeding grounds. Although they are not listed in the Special Protection Areas covering the Sunderland coast, the UK population is internationally important, with approximately 30% of the European population overwintering here.

You are most likely to see Curlew in the winter months. During low tide they are often seen foraging along the exposed intertidal zone and during high tide they sometimes retreat to nearby fields or farmland where they will forage on earthworms and insects. Always remember to follow our guidance when it comes to reducing bird disturbance.

KEY FACTS

CONSERVATION STATUS | Red

LENGTH | 50-60cm

WINGSPAN | 80-100cm

WHEN TO SEE THEM | All year round but especially autumn/winter

Curlew

Curlew

KEY FACTS

Great Black-backed gull

Knot

Dunlin

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