The encounter
The curlew is one of the great voices of the moors, with its haunting, bubbling call carrying over open ground in spring and early summer. It favours rough grassland, wet flushes and open upland habitat, where its long down-curved bill and elegant shape make it unmistakable.
Quick ID — at a glance
BirdBest time of day
Early morning and evening
Best months
Spring and early summer are the key months, when breeding birds are most vocal and visible on open ground.
Best time to see them
When to look for Curlew
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul
Best time of day: Early morning and evening
Best conditions: Still or lightly breezy days, especially after rain when feeding areas stay soft
Early morning and evening are often best, especially when the moor is quiet and birds are calling across breeding territories.
Through the seasons
Spring
Peak season
Mar · Apr · May
Summer
Active Jun, Jul
Jun · Jul · Aug
Autumn
Not typically present
Sep · Oct · Nov
Winter
Not typically present
Dec · Jan · Feb
Community sightings
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Seen one of these on Dartmoor, Exmoor or Bodmin Moor?
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Recent sightings
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Printable field notes
A reference sheet for this species — identification, best months, habitat and spotting tips.
Further reading
Authoritative resources
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