Bush Stone-curlews

Report a sighting

Bush Stone-curlew - Eli Szandala
Credit: Eli Szandala

Also known as: Bush Thick-knee, Weeloo, Willaroo, and Angelbird.

In NSW, the Bush Stone-curlew has been listed as an Endangered species which means that it is likely or is in immediate danger of becoming extinct. Estimations show that only 1000 breeding pairs are left in NSW (and declining) and all efforts are needed to ensure the long term survival of this wonderful bird.

Bush Stone-curlew - Theo spykers
Credit: Theo Spykers

Bush Stone-curlews are known from a number of locations in Tweed Shire. They are known from both rural and residential areas.

Bush Stone-curlews are much loved residents of some of our coastal villages. Public parks and private properties around Fingal, Kingscliff, Chinderah, Hastings Point and Pottsville support a number of adult Curlews, however very few young birds make it through to adulthood.

If you have any difficulties using this form, you can report a sighting directly by calling Council on 02 6670 2400 or email tsc@tweed.nsw.gov.au.

How can you help Bush Stone-curlews?

  • Keep your pets confined to your property at all times, except when on a leash or at a designated off-leash area.
  • Report any fox dens to Tweed Shire Council.
  • Look out for Bush Stone-curlews when in local parks and gardens. If you see them, please respect their need for space and give them a very wide berth.
  • Teach children about Bush Stone-curlews, and ask that they do not approach them if they see them.
  • Keep an eye and ear out for the Bush Stone-curlew and report any sightings online.
  • Participate in programs in your suburb to protect Bush Stone-curlews when they are nesting or raising chicks.

What is being done in Tweed Shire to help Bush Stone-curlews?

In Tweed Shire, community members and Council staff are working together to protect nesting Bush Stone-curlews, and to assist them to raise their chicks through to adulthood. The following actions are being implemented.

  • Fox control on public land through the identification and fumigation of den sites during the curlew breeding season.
  • Protection of nest sites through signage and, where necessary, fencing to exclude people.
  • Programs to encourage responsible pet ownership.
  • Habitat restoration programs on both private and public land.
  • Where applicable, conditions on developments and events to protect Bush Stone-curlews and their habitat.


View the video about Bush Stone-curlews

Please call 02 6670 2400 to learn how you can participate in programs or to report Bush Stone-curlew sightings, in particular nesting pairs or pair with young.

If you see an injured Bush Stone-curlew please call Tweed Valley Wildlife Carers on their 24 hour Hotline – 02 6672 4789

For matters related to interfering with wildlife please contact NSW NPWS – npws.tweedbyron@environment.nsw.gov.au

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