11-03-2025
Volunteers flocking to aid iconic bird's recovery
THE iconic call of the curlew for generations has been associated with the start of spring.
Sadly, the curlew is one of the country's most rapidly declining breeding bird species.
But in Cumbria, volunteers are now flocking to a project whose aim is to bring these birds back from the brink.
A volunteer evening hosted by the Melbreak Curlew Recovery Project proved a resounding success, with 48 new volunteers wanting to become actively involved.
The Curlew Recovery Project, based in and around the Cocker Valley, started early in 2024 in response to the rapidly declining number of curlews, which are now on the Red List of the UK Conservation Status Report of endangered species.
Diane Clarke, who was part of the team that saved four curlew nests last year, from which eleven chicks successfully hatched, spoked about her rewarding experience as one of the first volunteers
BTO expert, Thalia, with ringed chicks (Image: Supplied)
There followed a 'speed dating' session, comprising four tables with displays, each hosted by an experienced volunteer, describing the various volunteer opportunities – Surveys and Mapping, Nest Finding and Monitoring, and Protective Fencing and Maintenance.
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Volunteers were able to visit each table to learn what is involved and to see and handle all the equipment used. Last, but not least, 'The Engine Room' covered administrative roles, monitoring and analysing information, publicity and fundraising.
As well as visual storyboards about the life of the curlew, a recording of the delightful song of the curlew was periodically played.
'The response from new volunteers has been amazing and we are delighted to welcome them to the group', said David Gardiner, Chair of Melbreak Curlew Recovery Project.
'We have received very positive feedback, which clearly demonstrates that residents, farmers and landowners alike, some beyond our local area, share a deep seated concern and interest in recovering nature and wildlife.
"With extra funding from Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL), we have been able to purchase further equipment and we now look forward to extending our work by protecting an increasing number of nests. With the help of our extra volunteers, we are on track to do just that!
"The first spring curlews have already been heard in the valley and we are excited about the year ahead.'
Diana Clarke said: 'It's such a privilege to be involved in this project. I have learnt so much about these wonderful birds and it makes me all the more determined to do all I can to save them'
For further information, or if you would like to be involved with the Curlew Recovery Project, please contact David Gardiner
If anyone sees or hears curlews in and around the Cocker Valley, an email to sightingsatmelbreakcurlews@ would be appreciated, with the date, time and location.
The Curlew Recovery Project has been funded by Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) and is part of the Melbreak Wildlife Group, an initiative of the Melbreak Communities.
