Numenius borealis
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The Eskimo Curlew faces extinction primarily due to massive historical overhunting during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when millions were killed during migration for commercial markets. Habitat loss across its breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra and wintering areas in South American pampas has eliminated critical stopover sites. The species' extremely low population numbers, possibly fewer than 50 individuals, make it vulnerable to stochastic events and limit breeding opportunities.
Habitat
Breeds in Arctic tundra of northern Canada and Alaska, preferring open areas with scattered vegetation near water sources. Winters in grasslands and pampas of southern South America, particularly in Argentina, utilizing short-grass prairies and agricultural areas during migration.
