Identifying potential breeding sites for the stone curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) in the UK

The stone curlew (Burhinus oedicnemus) is one of the rarest breeding birds in the UK with an estimated breeding population of under 300 pairs. In the UK a marked decrease in the numbers has occurred, mainly due to habitat change or loss, resulting in the bird no longer breeding on many of its traditional nesting grounds. Using a Geographic Information System we define potential breeding areas in a landscape known to historically support a stone curlew breeding population. With an understanding of the birds’ abiotic nesting requirements, we model optimal locations for potential breeding sites for the bird, using known historical breeding data to verify the selection process. In total, we identify 424 parcels of land (2866 hectares) providing the critical habitat requirements for the stone curlew in the overall study area, 323 (1958 hectares) of which correspond with the known historic breeding distribution of the bird. We conclude that the modelling approach outlined is valuable in the identification of potential breeding sites for the stone curlew and that the model could be operated in tandem with agri-environment payments such as those offered within the Countryside Stewardship Scheme, in an attempt to focus these payments upon areas which will deliver maximum nature conservation potential. In addition we suggest that, subject to appropriate data availability, the approach outlined be applied to other species of high-conservation concern, particularly those which are currently under consideration for introduction or re-introduction programmes.