Snowdonia Society flies the flag for curlews
Curlews are charismatic birds of wetlands, moorland and meadows. They are declining rapidly due to habitat loss resulting from intensive land use, drainage and development.
On Saturday 13th April the Snowdonia Society hosted a day of activities as part of national efforts to save this special bird.
The event took place at Ysbyty Ifan, one of the places where curlews return each year to breed on expanses of open boggy moorland. The Snowdonia Society brought a clutch of conservation organisations together to take part in the day’s activities, including the British Trust for Ornithology, North Wales Wildlife Trust, National Trust and the RSPB.
Dr Rachel Taylor of the BTO, a researcher into Snowdonia curlew populations, led a walk to a local breeding site for members of the public. The 35-strong group included local farmers and children from Ysbyty Ifan.
During the talk which followed in the village hall Dr Taylor introduced her curlew tagging project which highlighted the sharp decline in breeding curlews. She explained the urgent need for researchers, organisations and land owners to work together and take action to protect nesting birds and their habitat.
The day was rounded off with tea and cakes supplied by the local WI group and the announcement of the winners of the childrens’ curlew drawing competition, won by Huw (aged 5) and Molly (aged 9). To see the children’s artwork, check out the Snowdonia Society Instagram page here.
For many people the curlew’s mournful call summons up the spirit of open spaces and wild nature. But far from being wilderness, the curlew’s habitat is the product of traditional low-intensity farming. These wild birds need our help. If today’s children are to grow up and share that curlew connection, we need to spread the word and support those who are working together now to meet the challenges.
The Snowdonia Society would like to thank all of those who took part on the day who helped to make it a great success.
Together in one place we brought together the people who can make a difference; researchers, local farmers, conservation organisations and local individuals and families.
What can you do?
Please support BTO, RSPB, NWWT, and National Trust – and Snowdonia Society of course – these are hard-working charities all doing their bit for curlews, with the support of Natural Resources Wales
Get involved with World Curlew Day events. World Curlew Day falls on April 21 and was established by writer Mary Colwell to catalyse action to save the bird.
Report curlew sightings during the breeding season here
