World Curlew Day

World Curlew Day is observed annually on April 21st to raise awareness about the conservation of curlew species worldwide. Established in 2017 by British conservationist Mary Colwell, this day highlights the challenges faced by curlews, including habitat loss and declining populations. ​¹

About Curlews

Curlews are a group of wading birds known for their long, down-curved bills and distinctive calls. There are eight recognized species, including the Eurasian Curlew, Long-billed Curlew, and Far Eastern Curlew. Unfortunately, two species—the Eskimo Curlew and the Slender-billed Curlew—are now considered extinct, and several others are facing significant population declines. ​

Significance of April 21st

The date was chosen for multiple reasons:​

• It aligns with the average first laying date for curlews in Europe.​
• It coincides with the feast day of St. Beuno, a Welsh saint associated with curlews.​
• It marks the birthday of environmentalist John Muir, reflecting the day’s conservation focus.

How to Participate

• Educate Yourself
  Learn more about curlews and their habitats.​
• Support Conservation Efforts
  Donate to organizations like Curlew Action that work towards curlew conservation.​
• Spread Awareness
  Share information on social media using the hashtag #WorldCurlewDay.​
• Engage in Local Activities
  Participate in birdwatching events or conservation projects in your area.​

Interesting Facts About Curlews

• Curlews are remarkable birds that urgently need protection, as many of their species are now on the brink of extinction. Once widespread in the 19th century, their numbers declined dramatically throughout the 20th century. Today, it’s estimated that as few as 50 to 300 individuals remain in some critically endangered populations.
• There are eight recognized species of curlews across the world. These birds are known for their distinctively long, curved beaks, which they use to probe mud and soil searching for insects, crustaceans, and other small creatures to eat.
• One of the most haunting things about curlews is their eerie, melancholic calls, often described as ghostly or mournful. They use these sounds to communicate with each other and to mark their territory.
• Curlews are migratory birds, capable of traveling great distances during their annual migrations. During breeding season, they perform unique courtship displays that can include aerial acrobatics, wing-flapping rituals, and various vocalizations.
• Sadly, their populations are shrinking, mostly due to habitat loss, climate change, and historical hunting. Conservation efforts are now underway in many regions, aiming to protect and restore the wetlands and grasslands they depend on.
• Curlews have also appeared in folklore and literature for centuries. In some cultures, they are seen as symbols of good fortune, while in others they are associated with omens or death.

World Curlew Day aims to raise awareness about curlew conservation and the challenges these unique birds face globally.​

World Curlew Day Dates Table

1. https://www.curlewaction.org/world-curlew-day/[↩]