The largest wader, rather dark on mudflats at a distance, yet looking pale on heather moorlands in summer; roosts in flocks but often feeds in isolation or very loose groups.

Large and stately, the Curlew is also remarkable for its long, smoothly down-curved bill. It is a widespread bird with a huge range of habitats. Throughout most of the year it is the distinctive voice of the saltmarsh and muddy estuary, and in spring it is the chief glory of the heather moor and blanket bog. Curlews are sociable outside the breeding season and form large flocks at high tide.