About Curlew Connections
Curlew Connections Wales is the newest wader conservation project supported by Welsh Government’s ‘Nature Networks Fund’, delivered by the Heritage Lottery Fund. One million pounds has been allocated to support breeding curlew in Wales, focusing on three ‘Important Curlew Areas’. As a collaborative, GWCT is leading in Montgomeryshire alongside partners in the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley AONB and Bannau Brychieniog National Park.
Curlew Connections Wales aims to tackle the key issues driving the low breeding success of curlew, monitoring and understanding curlew populations within these areas, implementing predator management and habitat works at the forefront. With breeding curlew predicted to be extinct in Wales by 2033, an important aspect of the project is to connect the landscape and people to these iconic birds. A team of dedicated Curlew and People Officers will work closely with farmers, landowners and land managers, alongside a workforce of volunteers to improve the fledging success of local populations of curlew throughout Wales.
Important Curlew Areas (ICA’s)
The map below shows the 12 Important Curlew Areas in Wales. The Curlew Connections Project is focusing on three:
- ICA 5 South Clwyd Mountains and Dee Valley
- ICA 9 Montgomeryshire and North Radnorshire
- ICA 12 Usk Catchment and Llangorse Lake
Why do Curlew need our help?
Curlew in Wales are predicted to be on the brink of extinction by 2033 (no longer viable breeding species). They are the most pressing bird conservation priority in Wales. It is believed currently the population of Curlew in Wales is declining at a rate of 6% per year.
There are many factors causing the decline of Curlew. Below highlights some of the most significant factors:
- Predation
- Habitat Fragmentation
- Tree Planting
- Drainage of damp ground
- Food availability
Curlew Connections is working with Landowner, Farmers and Local Communities across Wales to help save this magnificent species.