Record 161 young Choughs fledge in Cornwall
Fifty-six successful pairs raised an average of almost three young each as Cornwall's naturally recolonised Chough population continued its remarkable recovery.
A record 161 young Choughs have fledged from nests around the Cornish coast this summer, exceeding the previous high by 32 birds.
The youngsters were raised by 56 successful pairs, giving an average productivity of almost three fledglings per nest. The 2025 season produced 129 young from 48 successful pairs.
The results were announced by the Cornish Chough Conservation Network, whose members include Cornwall Birds, the RSPB, National Trust and Natural England. Conservationists monitored more than 70 breeding attempts during 2026, while Cornwall Birds estimates that the county now holds more than 400 Choughs and over 80 territorial pairs.
This is the fourth consecutive year in which more than 100 young have fledged in Cornwall. The recent progression has been from 112 young raised by 39 successful pairs in 2023, to 114 from 42 pairs in 2024, 129 from 48 pairs in 2025 and 161 from 56 pairs this year. As recently as 2016, only 23 fledglings were recorded.
The Lizard remains a particularly important breeding area. Eight nests on the peninsula produced 26 young this summer, 11 more than in 2025. However, the population is no longer confined to its original stronghold, with thriving numbers in Penwith and breeding birds established on the Roseland and in increasing numbers across mid and north Cornwall.
Their remarkable recovery shows what can be achieved when habitats are restored and protected, giving wildlife the space it needs to thrive.
The figures mark another milestone in one of England's most striking natural recolonisations. Choughs disappeared from Cornwall during the 20th century, with the last surviving bird recorded near Newquay in 1973.
In 2001, three birds thought to have arrived from Ireland settled at Lizard Point. Two formed a pair and nested the following year, producing Cornwall's first wild-fledged Choughs for more than half a century. The population now present around much of the county's coast has developed from that exceptionally small beginning.
The return has been supported by sustained habitat work. Choughs feed mainly by probing for beetles, leatherjackets and other invertebrates in short, open turf. The abandonment of traditional grazing allowed many former feeding areas to become overgrown and was an important factor in the species' original disappearance.
Conservationists, farmers and landowners have worked together to restore grazing on clifftops and coastal fields, creating a varied sward in which the birds can reach their prey. Maintaining a connected network of suitable feeding grounds becomes increasingly important as the population spreads and young birds search for new territories.
Monitoring has expanded alongside the birds. Around 50 RSPB and National Trust volunteers watched Choughs between the Roseland and Bude this year, recording nesting activity and helping the network collate the county-wide results. In the earliest years after the return, volunteers also maintained intensive nest watches to protect the pioneering pairs.
The Chough's glossy black plumage, curved red bill and red legs make it unmistakable at close range, while its ringing call and acrobatic flight often reveal birds around sea cliffs. Its association with Cornwall extends far beyond ornithology: the species appears on the county's coat of arms and is deeply embedded in Cornish folklore.
Although the growing numbers are encouraging, the population's origin from very few founders means its genetic health remains an important long-term consideration. Continued habitat management, monitoring and expansion into new areas will be needed if the recovery is to remain secure.
Birders can support the monitoring work by reporting Cornish Chough sightings, including birds visiting gardens and details of any observed feeding behaviour, to choughs@cbwps.org.uk.
The full announcement and breeding figures are available from Cornwall Birds.
28 Aug 2026
Get Breaking Birdnews First
Get all the latest breaking bird news as it happens, download BirdAlertPRO for a 30-day free trial. No payment details required and get exclusive first-time subscriber offers.
Share this story
