Abstract

This paper summarises the history and migrations of the Eskimo Curlew Numenius borealis, a formerly abundant species now possibly extinct. A recent review of all British records by BOURC concluded that the previously accepted first British record (Woodbridge, Suffolk, November 1852) is no longer acceptable. Details of all British claims are presented, and the review concluded that four British records are still acceptable. One shot at the summit of Cairn Mon Earn, North-east Scotland, on 6th September 1855 becomes the first British record.