(2023) MiNr. 535 ** - Aland - Křivka velká

Loxia pytyopsittacus - Great Curlew: an inhabitant of northern pine forests

The great curlew (Loxia pytyopsittacus) is an interesting and relatively rare species of songbird in the finch family (Fringillidae), which is adapted to life in the coniferous forests of northern Europe and western Siberia. Its most distinctive feature is its peculiarly curved beak, which enables it to efficiently extract seeds from the cones of conifers - especially pines.

Recognition and confusion with other species

The big sagebrush is the largest of the three European sagebrush species. Adults reach a length of about 18 cm, with a wingspan of about 30-33 cm. Weight ranges from 40-58 g. Compared to the more common common curlew (Loxia curvirostra), it has a more robust and longer bill, which appears "parrot-like" precisely because of its robustness and curvature.

The colour of feathers varies between the sexes, with males being reddish to brick red, and females having olive green or grey-green tones. In the field, however, it is often difficult to distinguish the species of curlew by appearance, and they can be reliably identified mainly by voice and bill morphometry.

Habitat and occurrence

Loxia pytyopsittacus is found mainly in Scandinavian pine forests, especially in areas with Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), on whose cones the species depends for food. It breeds mainly in Finland, Sweden, Norway and the Baltic States, but depending on food availability, invasive movements may occur further south - including central Europe.

Food and Specialization

The large curve tooth is a highly specialized tool for collecting seeds from cones. While the common curlew prefers spruce (Picea abies) and the white-winged curlew (Loxia leucoptera) uses mainly larch, the great curlew specializes exclusively in pine. Due to this feeding specialization, its occurrence is closely tied to the success of the fruiting years of pine trees.

Breeding and Biology

The great curlew is one of the earliest breeding birds in Europe - nests are often made as early as January, when females sit on eggs even in freezing temperatures. The chicks hatch after 14 days and are fed on partially poisoned seeds. The parents take turns caring for the chicks, which leave the nest after about 3 weeks.

Threats and conservation

Although the greater curlew is classified by the IUCN as Least Concern, its populations are subject to significant fluctuations depending on the availability of cones. Large-scale coniferous forest harvests and climate change affecting the periodicity of pine fruiting are potential threats.

Importance for ecology and research.

Species in the genus Loxia are often studied in the context of species speciation, adaptation, and feeding specialization. The great curve is an example of an ecological niche and adaptive evolution that has led to a close dependence on a single food source.