This training film was a partnership initiative by Curlew Country and the British Trust for Ornithology. It was made in 2017 by local photographer and cameraman Ben Osborne. The idea is to help those unfamiliar with Curlew behaviour, but trying to record adult numbers or support breeding activity. It was made in response to the many requests that were being received for help and advice. It shows some of the behaviours you might see a pair of curlew displaying during the breeding season, including mating and nesting behaviours.
This year, several people have contacted us as they have heard and seen Curlews on their daily exercise walks, but are wondering what stage of breeding they are at. We have decided to put this information online in addition to the individual copies of the CDs available from Curlew Country, so that the information can get quickly to people who need it, without sending CDs through the post.
You can find out more about curlew and how to help them on our website www.curlewcountry.org
PLEASE NOTE: If you are lucky enough to see a pair of curlew in the wild, it is important that you do not disturb the birds, particularly when they are nesting. If you stay in one place for too long watching a pair, they could be put off the nest for extended periods, leaving it vulnerable. If the nest is incomplete, the pair may even abandon if disturbed excessively. To give you some idea of Curlew sensitivity, viewing Curlews through binoculars when not in a hide or concealed (we do most of our observations from vehicles), is likely to disturb the birds. We have found that some distance away using telescopes can still cause them alarm. If in doubt please get in touch for more guidance.
