Curlew Project

Curlew in Crisis – Can We Turn the Tide?

Curlew are one of Wales’s most iconic birds, yet they’re teetering on the brink – without urgent action, they are on track for extinction in Wales by 2033.

A nationwide effort is underway, led by Gylfinir Cymru / Curlew Wales, bringing together government, conservation, farming and game management sectors. In Wales there are 12 Important Curlew Areas and most of Montgomeryshire is one.

While breeding success is far too low to secure these birds' future, the fight is far from over. In 2026, Cyfoeth Naturiol Cymru / Natural Resources Wales is aiming to map every breeding pair across Wales in collaboration with BTO British Trust for Ornithology. This will be a game-changer for understanding where Curlew still cling on.

Past conservation work for Curlew

In 2021-22 grants from Natural Resources Wales (NRW) funded research, a public appeal, a report and bought tracking equipment. In April and May 2022 Curlews were caught and tagged as part of our Montgomeryshire Curlew Project using colour rings and radio tags purchased the year before. This yielded some interesting data which is currently being analysed by an Aberystwyth University Masters student – so watch this space.

Despite our work, we still need help to save the Curlew - particularly with recording numbers in Montgomeryshire.

We also need funding to carry out fieldwork, co-ordinate records, protect nests, liaise with landowners and carry out habitat management. All donations gratefully received.

For more information about the Curlew, click here or to listen to the fascinating talk on this iconic species by local expert Mick Green below.