Eurasian Curlew
Numenius arquata
Aves › Charadriiformes › Scolopacidae › Numenius
Conservation status: near_threatened
The Eurasian Curlew is a large wading bird with a distinctively long, downward-curved bill that it uses to probe deep into mud and soil for food. It's one of Europe's largest curlews, with mottled brown plumage, and is known for its haunting, bubbling call that echoes across wetlands and moorlands.
How To Identify
Eurasian Curlews are substantial wading birds characterized by sturdy legs and a strikingly long, gracefully curved bill used for probing deep into mud. Their plumage is generally cryptic, featuring shades of earthy brown, grey, and buff that allows them to camouflage effectively in coastal habitats.
Habitat
The Eurasian Curlew lives in heathland, moorland, and estuaries in winter.
Behaviour
The Eurasian Curlew probes its long bill deep into mud for invertebrates.
Native Range
The Eurasian curlew is one of the most widespread curlews, breeding across temperate Europe and Asia.
Did You Know?
Europe's largest wader; its haunting, bubbling call epitomises wild upland landscapes.
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