Answering The Call

Once common across Ireland, the distinctive rasping call of the corncrake is now a memory for most. Modern agriculture has driven this shy, mysterious bird to the brink – but hope remains. Small populations of the bird still survive on Ireland’s western coastline. Ecologists, farmers and local communities are all working hard to revive the habitat of the corncrake in the hope of the population increasing.

From rural Ireland to central Africa, Answering the Call explores the interconnectedness of land,

people, and wildlife. The film asks: if the corncrake’s fate is tied to farming and migration, can we rethink our relationship with the land in time to save it?

Ultimately, the corncrake is more than a bird. It is a test of our willingness to adapt, a symbol of resilience, and a reminder that survival often depends on cooperation across borders and cultures.

Martin Danneels beautifully patient filmmaking endeavour warms your heart, as we encounter people not only in touch with nature but willing to give its preservation all their time and effort. Humans are loud, fast, destructive. Long live the ones among us who do all they can to hear the corncrake's call again, fix the area to make it attractive and liveable for the bird again... and then wait.

Followed by a Q&A with the director.