The far-eastern curlew needs our help

There are lots of direct and indirect ways we can support endangered species from our own backyards – everyone can find a way to help. The far-eastern curlew is a migratory bird that is on the critically endangered list, which means they are at risk of extinction.

Far-eastern curlew
Numenius madagascariensis

National status: Critically endangered
Range: Intertidal flats on coastlines in every state

The first time I saw a far-eastern curlew was through a scope while visiting the Broome Bird Observatory in the Kimberley Region of WA, and I immediately fell in love with these huge, mild-mannered birds. Far-eastern curlews fly every year from their breeding grounds in Russia and northern China to our coastlines, where they use their elongated bills to look for crabs and other invertebrates to eat. They spend the summer regaining the weight they need to make the return journey to the Northern Hemisphere. Like our other international shorebirds (for example, the bar-tailed godwit), curlews need us to co-ordinate with other countries along the flight path to ensure they have safe rest stops along their journey. Coastal developments on their migratory path are a major threat, while increasing average temperatures impact their food supplies, particularly at the far-eastern curlew’s breeding grounds.

How to help: Contact your local government representative to let them know coastal habitats are crucial to many endangered species, and that we need more climate action. You can also volunteer for Birdlife’s Australian Shorebird Monitoring Project.

Georgia Angus is our go-to bird expert and you can learn more about endangered birds in her full article in the Early Winter 2026 issue (OG 165). You’ll find it in newsagents and selected supermarkets. Or you can subscribe here to get an issue delivered to your door!