The distinctive ‘crex crex’ call of the Corncrake has been heard once again last week in the Western Isles, marking the return of this endangered species for another breeding season in Scotland.

These elusive birds, once widespread across the UK, have seen a decline in numbers in recent decades due to changes in agricultural practices, but conservationists are hopeful that their efforts, alongside volunteers, farmers and landowners, are making a difference for the species.

Corncrakes are incredibly secretive small brown birds, and are close relatives to Moorhens and Coots, though they spend the winter months in Congo in Central Africa, migrating back to a few places across Scotland and Northern Ireland to breed.

Previously found across the UK, the mechanisation of farming meant most of their breeding habitats were lost, except for the few remaining areas in Scotland and Northern Ireland.