The return of the Stone-curlew – A conservation triumph 

The Stone-curlew, a shy and peculiar looking sandy-brown bird, was once a common sight in England during the spring and summer months. However, by 1985, its population had plummeted, with only 150 breeding pairs remaining.  

The decline of this species was primarily driven by habitat loss. Stone-curlews typically nest in dry, well-drained soils, such as chalk grasslands, sandy heaths, and most importantly, farmland, where they find an abundant supply of insects to eat.  

As traditional grasslands and heathland disappeared, Stone-curlews were forced to nest on cultivated land, where their eggs and chicks faced significant threats from intensified farming practices and pesticides. 

40 years ago, RSPB, our UK Partner, launched two conservation initiatives in partnership with Natural England and with government support. These initiatives focused on creating special nesting plots within farmland, ensuring eggs and chicks could remain undisturbed and protected.  

Today, 207 farms and landowners across southern and eastern England are part of this initiative, providing around 305 nesting plots monitored by RSPB volunteers. Additionally, hundreds of hectares of grass heathland have been restored or created in collaboration with various partners, re-establishing ideal breeding conditions for the species. 

The results have been extraordinary. Thanks to the tireless work of volunteers, conservationists, and committed farmers, the number of breeding pairs in southern England has surged from around 30 in 1985 to approximately 120 pairs today. In 2024, an impressive 70% of all confirmed breeding attempts in southern England took place on specially created nesting plots funded through government agri-environment schemes. Similarly, in eastern England, the population has grown from fewer than 100 breeding pairs in 1985 to 226 in 2024. 

The outstanding recovery of the Stone-curlew is a testament to what can be achieved when conservation groups, farmers, and governments work together. With well-designed agri-environment schemes wildlife can thrive alongside sustainable farming. To ensure this success continues, the RSPB has launched a petition calling on the UK Government to guarantee long-term support for farmers who help protect nature. By empowering them to protect wildlife, combat climate change, and ensure sustainable food production, we can create a future where both people and nature flourish.  

Cover picture by Wildlife World/Shutterstock

This article was originally published by our UK Partner RSBP.