The GWCT stand at this year’s Royal Welsh Agricultural Show was brought to life on Curlew Day (Wednesday 23rd July), filled with the sights, sounds and conversations about one of Wales’ most iconic yet threatened birds. The three organisations working together as part of the Curlew Connections Wales Project (Prosiect Cysylltiadau Gylfinir Cymru) joined forces to deliver an engaging and educational day for RWAS visitors.
Families and individuals of all ages enjoyed creative activities, from adding feathers to our giant curlew mural to making landscape collages that reflected the patchwork habitats these birds depend on. Children delighted in the curlew egg hunt, searching for hidden eggs while learning fun facts about curlew nesting behaviour.
Over tea, coffee and our specially baked curlew cookies, farmers, land managers and visitors shared their experiences. These informal chats often grew into deeper discussions about the challenges curlews face, and the practical steps being taken across Wales to support them.
Two well-attended talks added real depth to the day. In the morning, Farming with Curlew: How farmers are helping turn the tide featured the three Curlew & People Officers alongside two farmers who host curlews on their land. One farmer reflected: “It is a privilege to have curlew on your land,” capturing the pride and responsibility felt by those working with this iconic bird. In the afternoon, Gylfinir Cymru: Curlew in the Agricultural Landscape of Wales explored the broader conservation picture. Both sessions drew large audiences, sparking thoughtful questions, debate and highlighting the vital role of collaboration between farming and conservation.
Curlew Day was a fantastic opportunity to raise awareness, celebrate project successes so far, and inspire collective action to secure a future for this remarkable bird in Wales.