Seasonal Occurrence and Abundance of Shorebirds at Atalaia Nova Beach in Sergipe State, Brazil

Abstract

Many Neartic shorebirds migrate to South America for the non-breeding season, and use several key stopover and wintering sites along the Atlantic coast. However, there is little information about annual shorebird use along the northeast coast of Brazil. This year-long study examined the seasonal occurrence and abundance of shorebirds at Atalaia Nova beach in Sergipe State, Brazil. Of the 13 species recorded, the most abundant were Semipalmated Plovers (Charadrius semipalmatus), Semipalmated Sandpipers (Calidris pusilla), and Sanderlings (Calidris alba). Highest numbers occurred between September and March, and the lowest numbers occurred between April and August. Some species were present throughout the year. Atalaia Nova beach is an important migration stopover and wintering site for shorebirds in northeastern Brazil.