Calling corncrakes return to seasonal home

The distinctive “crex crex” call of the corncrake has been heard once again in the Western Isles, marking the return of the endangered species for another breeding season.

These elusive birds, once widespread across the

UK, have seen a decline in numbers in recent decades due to changes in agricultural practices, but conservationists hope their efforts, alongside volunteers, farmers and landowners, are making a difference for the species.

Corncrakes are incredibly secretive small brown birds that spend the winter in Congo in Central Africa, migrating back to a few places across Scotland and Northern Ireland to breed.

The Corncrake Calling project has been undertaking targeted conservation efforts for the remaining populations found on some Scottish islands and in parts of the north-west coast of Scotland. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the project focuses on supporting farmers and crofters who are managing the land in a way which is good for corncrakes, engaging and educating the public about the secretive species and the vital role of farming in its survival, and advocating for rural development policies that better support farmers and crofters who farm in a nature and climate-friendly way.

The return of this endangered species to Scotland for another year to breed is a testament to the dedication and passion of the community, farmers, volunteers and the RSPB in their efforts to secure a future for the corncrake.

Tara Proud, project manager for Corncrake Calling, said: “The return of corncrakes to Scotland is not only a hugely exciting event, with their signature ‘crex crex’ call undeniably marking the start of spring, but also an encouraging sign the conservation efforts are helping.”

The return of corncrakes follows the news that numbers of the bird found in Scotland rose for the first time in five years in 2023 – 870 of these shy, rare calling males were recorded, up from 828 the previous year.