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Curlews are an iconic part of the Lancashire springtime landscape and spend the summer breeding season in the Pennine uplands around Colne. The much-loved wading bird is declining in numbers due to unsustainable housing developments, farming practices and litter problems.
Without public awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by the Curlew, these birds risk disappearing from our countryside unnoticed.
William Titley, project lead
The project is led by the University of Lancashire’s Senior Fine Art Lecturer, William Titley who will host a series of talks, walks and arts-based workshops to celebrate curlews and play a part in the conservation efforts.
Seven bespoke Ordnance Survey maps tracing a 62-mile public footpath called The Curlew Way will be created as part of the project. The maps will stretch from Colne to Morecambe Bay and reflect the Curlew migration routes.
The project will also:
- install nesting protection and observation cameras for research purposes along the routes
- deliver an exhibition of work by students from Park High School in Colne at the University’s PR1 Gallery in Preston
- produce a limited-edition book featuring research and artwork
Project lead, William Titley, said: “Over the past 25 years, the UK has witnessed a 50% decline in the Eurasian Curlew population, with significant crashes occurring in specific areas. Despite their deep cultural and historical significance, many people are unaware of the Curlew's struggles and may have difficulty recognising the bird. Without public awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by the Curlew, these birds risk disappearing from our countryside unnoticed.”
