Scientific knowledge: the essential component of shorebird conservation

Studies of the distribution, abundance, population trends, migration patterns, and biology of shorebirds have formed the basis for many conservation initiatives and provide the essential information that is needed to understand the birds’ requirements, why they may be having problems, and how such problems may be solved. Studies of the distribution of Nearctic shorebirds in South America in the 1980s led to the identification of many key areas used by the birds during their non-breeding season, helped create a network of concerned biologists interested in shorebird conservation, and led directly to the creation of the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network. Analysis of data from a variety of long-term monitoring programs has revealed widespread declines in many shorebird populations and alerted the conservation community to the need for action. Studies of the biology of particular species, especially on an international scale, may be highly effective in pinpointing where problems are occurring and indicate how and where conservation action is needed. The Red Knot Calidris canutus rufa, which migrates between the central Canadian Arctic and Tierra del Fuego and which has undergone dramatic declines since 2000, provides an excellent example of how internationally coordinated studies on the distribution, abundance, migration, physiology, and food requirements of the species have led to a well developed scientific understanding of the reasons for the decline – in this instance increased mortality owing to inability to acquire needed body reserves on migration in Delaware Bay because of reduced food resources. Such information substantially increases the power and authority of arguments in favour of specific conservation measures.