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Drone spots rare chicks before farmers mow fields
27 May
Summary
- Thermal drone helps find endangered curlew nests before mowing.
- Charity found six curlew nests and 32 total nests this year.
- Farmers adjust schedules to protect chicks and nests.
A Cumbria-based charity is employing advanced thermal drone technology to safeguard endangered curlew chicks from agricultural activities. Curlew Recovery South Lakes has successfully identified six curlew nests this year using the drone, adding to the 32 nests found overall. These birds are red-listed and declining due to low breeding success.
Farmer George Taylor urged farmers to contact the charity if they suspect nests are in fields slated for cutting. Curlews lay eggs in ground nests, and chicks require about eight weeks before fledging. Drone pilot Barny Sykes confirmed that once nests are secured with fencing, farm operations can proceed safely, with many farmers demonstrating remarkable cooperation by adjusting their mowing times.
As of the current date, the charity reports 27 curlew chicks have hatched this year, with 16 nests still containing eggs. Volunteer Susannah Bleakley expressed optimism, noting more nests were found this year than ever before, thanks to farmer input and accumulated knowledge. The charity has seen improved chick fledging rates locally over the past two years, and hopes remain high for the chicks due to hatch this month.
