Four curlew eggs rescued from a large gorse fire in Brookeborough earlier this year have all hatched successfully, the Sliabh Beagh Curlew Conservation Trust has confirmed.

The eggs were discovered by firefighters battling the blaze on the Carrickyheenan Road. They were directly in the path of advancing flames.

The chicks are now healthy and being cared for in a heated holding pen. They will be moved to larger outdoor enclosures in the coming weeks as they develop.

The trust described the hatching as a positive development for the species, which is one of Ireland’s most threatened breeding birds. A spokesperson noted that the future of the eggs had been uncertain just weeks earlier.

The operation involved the Breeding Waders EIP Project, RSPB Northern Ireland, PeacePlus Nature, and other partners. The trust thanked individuals including a professional identified as Róisín, who provided commitment and tireless work.

The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service, Conservation Detection Dogs NI, Forest Service NI, local landowners, and volunteers also contributed.

The eggs were recovered, photographed, and cared for under a licence from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. All work was carried out by trained and licensed personnel.