We are launching the “A Closer Look at the Curlew ” series, where we will introduce you to the star of our project.
Did you know that the Eurasian Curlew is the largest bird in the sandpiper family? It can reach up to 60 cm in length, with a wingspan of up to 100 cm! Despite its size, it is remarkably agile, and its distinctive silhouette – with a long bill and relatively short legs – makes it hard to mistake for any other species.
The length and shape of the curlew’s bill are true masterpieces of evolution. It is worth noting that in females, the bill is longer than in males, allowing them to reach deeper into the ground in search of invertebrates such as earthworms , molluscs, and crustaceans. This sexual dimorphism also helps reduce competition between the sexes – enabling both males and females to explore different layers of the habitat and make use of separate food sources. Their feeding specialisation makes curlews important players in wetland ecosystems, as they help regulate populations of small invertebrates.
Additionally, the curlew’s bill functions like a sound resonator , helping to modulate its distinctive, melodic calls.Its long, curved structure influences how sound is amplified and shaped. Thanks to this, males can produce far-reaching, melancholic calls that play a crucial role in courtship and long-distance communication.
During display flights, males combine these vocal performances with spectacular aerial manoeuvres, helping them attract mates and mark their territory .
