World Curlew Day

History of World Curlew Day

About 4.5 billion years ago, the earth began its existence as a hot mess. It gradually cooled for over a billion years. Fossil evidence points to the existence of life around 3.5 billion years ago. From then on, evolution shaped the nature, size, and behaviors of every species into the forms we see today. But this is not the end. The upcoming years will witness the evolution of various species. But the upcoming years will also witness the extinction of some of our beloved species due to human activities. To save various species from extinction, various laws are made, organizations are created, and campaigns are run. But the root cause of the problem is always human greed for more, and it will not decrease easily.

One such species that need our immediate help is the curlew. Habitat loss and predation on eggs and young birds are the major causes of the reduction of curlew numbers. The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) estimates a 20–30% reduction in curlew breeding numbers in the past 15 years. If the condition of the birds had not improved in the coming years, we might have lost the entire species within eight years.

Curlews are migratory birds. The U.K. is an important country for the curlew, housing around a quarter of the world’s breeding population. We consider curlew the most important priority for conservation. With us starting the change, a bright future for these amazing birds is still possible.

World Curlew Day timeline

1514

The patron Saint of Curlews

St. Beuno — the patron saint of curlews — is canonized.

2015

The Species in Trouble

Curlews gets the status of ‘near threatened’ globally.

2016

The Walk to Raise Awareness

Mary Colwell completes the 500-mile walk to raise awareness for the conservation of curlews.

2018

The Curlew Moon

Mary Colwell publishes the book “Curlew Moon” detailing the plight of curlews.

World Curlew Day FAQs

When is World Curlew Day?

In 2027, World Curlew Day will be observed on Wednesday, April 21, continuing the annual tradition of highlighting the urgent need to protect curlew species and their habitats.

How many species of curlews are there?

The genus Numenius encompasses nine distinct curlew species, each with its own unique characteristics and migratory patterns. Conservationists are working diligently to prevent further population declines across this diverse group.

Why are curlews endangered?

The primary drivers of curlew endangerment include the loss of crucial breeding and feeding habitats, often due to intensive farming practices and urban expansion. Additionally, factors like nest disturbance and pollution exacerbate their vulnerability.

What is a curlew?

Curlews are a group of migratory shorebirds, easily identifiable by their unique bill shape, which they use to probe for invertebrates in mud and sand. They play an important ecological role in their diverse habitats worldwide.

How to Observe World Curlew Day

Spread awareness about curlews

Gather as much information as possible about the species. Arrange posters showcasing the statistics and graphics representing the sorrowful condition of the species.

Donate to make a better world

Fundraise for any organization working for the betterment of curlews. We can at least collect a small amount from our close friends and donate it to the cause.

Volunteer for rescue

There are organizations all over the world working towards making a better world for other species. Volunteer with any such organization and be a part of the rescue operations.

5 Intriguing Facts About Curlews

They are monogamous

Curlew mate for life, meaning they only will have one partner for their entire life.

The girls are bigger

Female curlews are larger and have longer bills.

They are hard-working fathers

Male curlews do most of the rearing activities.

A month-long gestation period

Curlew eggs can take up to 22 – 28 days to hatch.

The largest of the breed

Far Eastern curlew is the largest among the curlews.

Why World Curlew Day is Important

We love life

Every life matters so we must speak up to save lives. We love curlews and want to see them fly through the skies freely.

Biodiversity is important

Biodiversity is always an important factor in keeping the balance of the ecosystem. A loss for a species means a loss for the entire ecosystem.

A good day to spread awareness

This is a perfect day to make the public aware of the condition of the birds and their status. People who understand the impact of the condition of curlews can also join the mission to save the species.