April is an important month for the Curlew Numenius arquata as they leave their coastal wintering areas to fly to upland moors, farmland, and unimproved grassland to breed. On arrival male curlews perform dramatic display flights, descending with a characteristic “bubbling” song to attract mates. Being ground-nesting birds makes them vulnerable to predation from foxes, badgers and crows and especially early agricultural activities like harrowing or silage cutting. Curlews are the UK’s most pressing bird conservation priority, with populations experiencing severe declines.
Alan developed his passion for wildlife through childhood countryside exploration and birding. A Norfolk-based photographer, he’s recently retired and dedicating himself to intensifying his nature photography of local wildlife.
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