Atlantic Flyway Disturbance Project Phase 2: Biological Data Collection Report

Abstract

Human disturbance is a significant threat facing shorebirds throughout the annual cycle, and threats to shorebird habitats may be exacerbated by increased human use (e.g., beach recreationists, off-leash dogs), reducing the amount of coastal habitat that is functionally available to shorebirds. We worked with partners across the Atlantic flyway to develop a standardized protocol for data collection to evaluate the effects of human disturbance on six Atlantic Flyway Shorebird Initiative (AFSI) focal species (American Oystercatchers [AMOY; Haematopus palliates], Piping Plovers [PIPL; Charadrius melodus], Red Knots [REKN; Calidris canutus], Sanderling [SAND; Calidris Alba], Semipalmated Sandpipers [SESA; Calidris pusilla], and Wilson’s Plovers [WIPL; Charadrius wilsonia]).