Numenius arquata
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Mass
~800 g
Habitat
Grasslands and meadows
Diet
Fish and aquatic animals
How to recognize it
The Eurasian Curlew stands out at once with its long, down-curved bill and plain, muted plumage. It has a calm, unshowy presence, and on open ground it draws attention more through its manner than through color.
It is wary and carries a far-carrying, drawn-out call that is hard to miss. Males also give song from their breeding areas, adding another sound to watch for.
It breeds in wet places, including marshes and damp meadows. It feeds on insects, worms, and mollusks, taking them from the ground or probing soft mud; in winter it uses coasts, while inland it shifts to fields and floodplain meadows.
Quick Facts
Listen to the call
The Eurasian Curlew stands out at once with its long, down-curved bill and plain, muted plumage. It has a calm, unshowy presence, and on open ground it draws attention more through its manner than through color.
It is wary and carries a far-carrying, drawn-out call that is hard to miss. Males also give song from their breeding areas, adding another sound to watch for.
It breeds in wet places, including marshes and damp meadows. It feeds on insects, worms, and mollusks, taking them from the ground or probing soft mud; in winter it uses coasts, while inland it shifts to fields and floodplain meadows.
