Changes in the summer population of shorebirds in the Tweed River Estuary, northern New South Wales between 1987 and 2003

Abstract

Summer population estimates of shorebirds in the Tweed River Estuary are summarised for the period 1987 to 2003. Data from various sources were reviewed to determine their suitability for inclusion in the summary. The results show a significant decline in the total population of migratory shorebirds, with declines recorded for Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica, Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferrugenea and Pacific Golden Plover Pluvialis fulva. No evidence of a decline in the population of resident shorebirds was recorded.The population of Pied Oystercatcher Haematopus longirostris increased over the sample period. The specific reason for the decline in the population of migratory shorebirds is unclear and could be due to a combination of local and international factors. Local factors may include the loss of nocturnal habitat, the declining quality of high tide roosts or increased levels of human disturbance around roosts. Actions to reduce further declines are discussed.