Rare stone curlew is spotted by Alderney Bird Observatory
A RARE stone curlew – a species with just 400 breeding pairs in the UK – has been spotted as part of Alderney Bird Observatory’s recording of migrating birds.
The new assistant warden, Matthew Scragg, was in isolation at the start the ringing season, so La Societe Guernesiaise ornithological section volunteers and other islanders stepped up to help with the annual research, which involves recording thousands of migrating birds every spring.
‘We received a fantastic response from birdwatchers in Guernsey keen to help and quickly found ourselves with the required cover from mid-March through to mid-May,’ said ABO warden and island bird recorder John Horton.
Guernsey wildlife photographer and avid birder Chris Bale volunteered to help with recording on 2 April, with immediate rewards.
Despite blustery, cold and unfavourable conditions, Mr Bale was shown the designated census route to follow daily for the next few weeks.
Mr Horton said: ‘In terms of recording migrating birds it was hard-going with any self-respecting bird likely to be sheltering and resting in the cover of shrubs and bushes before continuing their journeys.’
Among rocks on the tideline at the north of Longis Bay, the pair saw the stone curlew, known in Africa as ‘dikkops’ or ‘thick-knees’.
These crow-sized birds have large heads and long yellow legs. They are mostly active at night when their big yellow eyes help them locate food.
Listed as a rare breeding bird in the British Isles, they are a species of conservation concern and afforded the highest level of legal protection.
Stone curlews are only known to breed at a handful of locations, most of which are kept secret.
It is likely the bird was travelling north to southern England after wintering in south-west Europe or North Africa.
‘Chris and I were most certainly delighted to share a short time observing this fascinating rare bird which was soon moved on by the fast incoming tide.’
Historical information mentions the stone curlew only as being shot in Alderney during the late 19th century, so this is the first official record.
Over 12,000 views were logged of Mr Bale’s photo of the bird posted on ABO’s Twitter page.
Mr Horton thanked all volunteers supporting the scientific research, saying the discovery highlights how Alderney is a critical staging post for birds to rest and refuel, and as a wonder location for bird migration.
‘It is heart-warming to see so much support and enthusiasm bringing Bailiwick islanders together for the benefit of conservation.’
