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Successful Breeding in Ireland for Endangered Curlew

Mysterious Curlew hiding in the grass. Image by Joshua J Cotten via Unsplash

In a remarkable conservation success, the haunting call of the curlew has returned to Trasna Island in Lower Lough Erne, marking a historic first in decades. Thanks to dedicated efforts by the RSPB and local partners, this once-thriving species is seeing a resurgence after facing dramatic declines. As these elusive birds raise their young in newly restored habitats, the community holds its breath, hoping this signals a bright future for the curlew in Northern Ireland.

A Celebrated Comeback

Curlew bird
Curlew bird perched. Image via Pixabay

The haunting call of the curlew has made a joyful return to Trasna Island, located in Lower Lough Erne, Northern Ireland. This is an exciting milestone, marking the first successful breeding of these birds on the island in living memory. Conservationists are thrilled, celebrating a small but significant victory for this once-thriving species.

The Role of RSPB NI

Curlew
Curlew. Image by Robert So via Pexels.

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) manages several islands in the Lough Erne area, with Trasna Island being acquired in 2017. Since then, the RSPB, alongside the Lough Erne Landscape Partnership, has focused on restoring habitats that support vulnerable bird species. This concerted effort aims to bring back not only curlews but also lapwings, snipes, and redshanks.

A Declining Species

Long-Billed Curlew on a shore.
Long-Billed Curlew on a shore. Image by Veronika_Andrews via Pixabay.

The curlew population has faced a dramatic decline, with over 80% lost since the 1980s. Currently, only around 150 breeding pairs remain in Northern Ireland. This steep drop has made curlews one of the highest conservation concerns, making their recent success even more meaningful.

Mysterious Behavior

Curlew
Curlew. Image Georg_Wietschorke via Pixabay.

Despite their return, much about curlew behavior remains a mystery. RSPB ranger Amy Burns notes that understanding their nesting habits can be challenging due to their secretive nature. Each year brings new questions, keeping conservationists on their toes.

The Parenting Dynamics

Curlew flying. Image by Joshua J Cotten via Unsplash

Curlew parenting is quite unique. After the chicks hatch, the female typically leaves the nest after about four weeks, leaving the male to protect the brood for another week or two. He remains vigilant, soaring above to monitor for potential threats while communicating with the chicks through specific calls.

Habitat Restoration Efforts

curlew
Curlew. Image Odd Rune Falch via Pexels.

The return of curlews highlights the success of practical conservation efforts. Restoring Trasna Island’s habitat involved clearing woodlands and creating open grasslands, ideal for breeding. This transformation mirrors the open, farmed landscape of the early 20th century, which was perfect for curlew nesting.

The Importance of Grazing

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Curlews in the water. Image by Tyke Jones via Unsplash

Highland cows have been introduced to Trasna Island to manage vegetation naturally. This approach minimizes human intervention and creates a more suitable environment for birds to thrive. Such measures aim to provide the best possible chance for curlews and other wading birds.

Future Hopes

curlew bird
Curlew bird. Image by adege via Pixabay.

As the curlews depart for their winter migration, hopes are high for a bright future. The conservation team is eager for their return in the spring, hoping that these birds will successfully breed again. Amy Burns emphasizes the importance of continued efforts to ensure the survival of the species.

A Collaborative Success

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Curlew soaring over the water. Image by Joshua J Cotten via Unsplash

The Curlew LIFE project has been pivotal in the recovery of this endangered species. Over the past few years, the project has fostered a remarkable increase in breeding pairs, jumping from 37 to 52 on the Antrim Plateau. This teamwork between conservationists and local farmers showcases how effective partnerships can lead to positive outcomes.

Looking Ahead

curlew
Curlew. Image by Dirk Schuneman via Pexels.

While there is still much work to do, the progress made with curlews in Northern Ireland is encouraging. The RSPB’s efforts have shown that targeted conservation measures can yield real results. With continued commitment and collaboration, the future of the curlew looks brighter than ever.