Sanderling Plan - Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network

years before the planned modification of natural habitat (Davidson and Evans 1987;
Buchanan 2000). This 5-year period is needed to: 1) identify suitable sites; 2) acquire,
design, and construct mitigation features at sites; 3) allow suitable sediments to settle and
stabilize; and 4) allow time for colonization of sufficient densities of invertebrate prey
species (Davidson and Evans 1987).
o Evaluate shorebird use of artificial impoundments - Artificially created sites may be very
important to shorebirds, and should be evaluated using the same approach as for
undisturbed sites (Warnock and Takekawa 1995).
o Create adequate roost sites – Although most shorebirds (including the Sanderling)
appear to prefer beaches (or salt marshes) as roost sites, they also use dredge-spoil islands
and other human-created areas. Artificial sites should provide shelter from strong winds
or sea swell, and be open with flat tops and gently sloping sides (to allow for effective
scanning for predators; Metcalfe 1984).
o Manage artificial (freshwater) sites during fall migration – During fall migration,
shorebirds use draw-downs, flooded agricultural lands, and artificial fish ponds. Gradual
draw-downs in shallow [0–5 centimeters (0–2 inches) deep] flood pools should be
interspersed with exposed saturated soils and should be maintained for the duration of fall
migration.
o Maximize invertebrate production at artificial (freshwater) sites – Artificial
impoundments will be most effective if site features maximize invertebrate production
and shorebird foraging efficiency.
RESEARCH AND MONITORING NEEDS
Research and monitoring needs for North America are highlighted in numerous state,
regional, and national shorebird planning documents, and by the Shorebird Research Group of
the Americas (SRGA website). Regional Plans of the U.S. Shorebird Conservation Plan describe
comprehensive as well as regionally focused research needs; other documents highlighting
research needs for the Sanderling include habitat Joint Ventures and State Wildlife Action Plans.
Research priorities important to the survival of the Sanderling include:
o determining limiting factors on breeding, migration, and wintering grounds;
WHSRN – Sanderling Conservation Plan, February 2010, v1.1 58