Curlew revival continues at nature reserve

The curlew revival continues at the Elmley Nature Reserve in Kent, where released birds have begun returning to nest, marking a significant milestone in a conservation project aimed at bringing back the at-risk species to lowland Britain. The reserve, one of three involved in the South of England Curlew Recovery Project, has seen more than 100 birds released since the initiative began four years ago.

Despite a 50% decline in curlew numbers since 1995, primarily due to changing farming practices and increased predators, conservationists are optimistic about the future. The reserve's location, near the healthier curlew population in upland areas like the Yorkshire Dales, provides a natural habitat for the birds to return and raise their young.

Conservationists are hopeful that next year, the young released birds will reach maturity and begin their own breeding cycle at Elmley.

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