The Curlew Walk starts today

Mary Colwell

On Thursday, 21 April, Catholic environmentalist Mary Colwell is setting out on a 500 mile walk across Ireland and England to raise money and awareness about the decline of curlews.

She says: "I am a radio and TV producer and writer, specialising in nature and the environment. On 21 April I will set out on a 500 mile walk from the west of Ireland to the east of England to raise funds and awareness about the decline of curlews. I estimate this will take me 6 weeks. I am doing this unpaid and alone.

Why am I doing this?

Curlews are beautiful birds. They have a haunting call which encapsulates the wildness of the meadows, marshes and uplands of the British Isles. For generations they have inspired poets, writers and artists, as well as brought joy to anyone who hears them. Yet today their numbers are declining at an alarming rate - so much so they are now on the red list of endangered species in the UK. Over the last 20 years Ireland has seen a 90% fall, Wales 80% and on average 50% throughout England and Scotland.

As I cross the British Isles I will give talks as well as media interviews. I will also interview scientists, conservationists, artists, musicians, poets, farmers, walkers - anyone who is inspired by the curlew and the beautiful places it inhabits. All this information will be collated and I will blog, facebook and tweet as I go.

Curlew recovery projects are getting underway right now across Britain. Once I am walking I will be raising money directly for these different ventures, which are being run by organisations such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, the British Trust for Ornithology, Birdwatch Ireland, the Wildlife Trusts, the National Trust and various partnership schemes.

I hope that curlews can turn the corner and once more have sustainable and thriving populations."

For Mary's route, feedback on the walk and donations see: www.curlewmedia.com