No time to waste if we are to save the curlew
LITERATURE and nature combine to celebrate curlews
There is no time to waste when it comes to curlews. We need to take action now because, if not, they are likely to disappear from Wales in a generation’s time – then become a distant memory that will never be experienced by our children.
To help raise awareness of this iconic species’ plight, RSPB Cymru will host a special event at the 2018 Hay literature Festival for the curlew, in partnership with acclaimed writer, producer and conservationist Mary Colwell. The event will celebrate the end of the RSPB’s Curlew Crisis Month, which takes place throughout May, highlighting the problems facing curlews by building support for their conservation via a series of walks and events across the UK.
Guests will enjoy an illustrated talk based on Mary’s newly released book Curlew Moon, which takes the reader on a gentle tale of discovery, tying in with the natural history of the curlew that has inspired us for millennia. The event will also play host to an exclusive panel discussion with RSPB’s Global Conservation Director Martin Harper and Welsh Assembly Member and curlew Species Champion Mark Isherwood AM, as they look toward a brighter future for our most endangered wildlife.
Sadly, there are growing fears that breeding curlew could be lost from Wales within the next few decades. Unfortunately, the numbers of curlew in Wales have declined by 80% since the 1980s, breeding pairs have virtually disappeared from lowland areas and in the uplands, their numbers are low and they are only just holding on in pockets.
Due to the dramatic declines, curlews are now Red Listed in the Birds of Conservation Concern in the Wales 3 report.
Farmers and landowners play a crucial role in the curlew’s future. From Sorcha Davies on her Elan Valley farm, John Jones at Tŷ Uchaf Eidda in Betws y Coed and Tony Davies at Henfron farm, RSPB Cymru is working closely with many farmers in Wales to make sure they can provide suitable habitat.
This summer organisations and individuals will be out surveying for breeding curlew, finding out where they are and connecting with farmers and landowners who can manage their land to give curlews a home. You could also help by getting in touch with RSPB Cymru, Welsh Ornithological Society or your local wildlife organisation.
■ If you would like to attend the Curlew Moon event, tickets can be purchased at the Hay Festival website: bit.ly/CurlewMoon