Features& Description
The Eurasian Curlew, from its Latin name Numenius arquata, is the largest of the shorebirds, with a wingspan of 106 cm.
Its beak is very long and curved. Its plumage is evenly striped and mottled with brownish-grey, with no distinguishing features.
In flight, a white patch on the rump is clearly visible as it rapidly flaps its wings, tips outstretched.
Habitat(Biotope)
Like many shorebirds, the Eurasian Curlew enjoys taiga marshes and bogs, large coastal meadows, farmland, pastures and mudflats.
On the lake, it can often be seen on mud flats among other birds.
Behavior& habits
The Eurasian Curlew is a very shy bird, always on the lookout for any potentially dangerous presence.
It uses its beak to probe the mud for small invertebrates and molluscs. In late summer, it feeds on berries, and in spring on small crabs.
In winter on the lake, they are sometimes found in large groups on the banks and mudflats.
Reproductionand immature
The Eurasian Curlew builds its nest on the ground from a few twigs, after a long parade by the female to confirm its location.
The female lays between 3 and 5 eggs, which take 30 days to incubate under her protection.
The young fledge after around 40 days, protected by the male throughout the non-flying period.
Cryor Voice
The Eurasian Curlew is not very discreet. It emits a rising, slightly melancholy, flutey “kuuu-li” whistle. In migration, its song varies towards a “kuui-kui-kuh”.
Also sings in flight in liquid, dull, rhythmic, ascending trills.
Le Courlis Cendre
Curlew
