What are they?
Migratory shorebird surveys are essential for understanding and managing the populations and habitats of both migratory and resident species. Because many shorebirds are difficult to distinguish, surveys must be undertaken by specialists with proven identification expertise — not by general ecologists or those experienced only in terrestrial birds.
At BAAM, we carry out detailed surveys that provide reliable data on species diversity, abundance, seasonality, migration, and habitat use, including tidal and seasonal use of roost sites and foraging behaviour. This information is critical for meeting legislative requirements, informing environmental assessments, and supporting conservation planning.
Our surveys also evaluate the impacts of development and human disturbance. Major projects such as airports, ports, and coastal developments can affect important roosting and feeding habitats. Shorebird surveys provide the evidence needed to identify these risks and design effective mitigation and management strategies.
Shorebird surveys can address:
- Population monitoring – tracking seasonal species abundance.
- Habitat assessment – identifying and evaluating key roosting and feeding sites.
- Behavioural monitoring – monitoring the types of behaviour that particular species exhibit when subject to disturbance by human and other activities.
- Impact assessment – understanding how development, recreation, or disturbance affects shorebird habitat use.
- Management strategies – recommending practical measures such as timing works outside migration periods, protecting roost sites, or managing recreational access.
- Specialist approaches – where non-standard monitoring or offsetting is required, BAAM has the expertise to deliver tailored solutions.
By integrating shorebird surveys into project planning, BAAM helps clients achieve sustainable outcomes while protecting the ecological needs of shorebirds.
How we do it
The outcomes of our surveys are translated into practical, evidence-based recommendations, such as:
- Scheduling works outside migration periods to minimise disturbance.
- Protecting and maintaining essential roosting and feeding habitats.
- Designing buffer zones and exclusion areas around sensitive sites.
- Developing monitoring programs to meet regulatory requirements.
- Managing recreational access to reduce human disturbance.
- Delivering community education and awareness initiatives.
Our advice is designed to be scientifically rigorous while remaining realistic and achievable in the context of client projects and conservation priorities.
BAAM staff are recognised leaders in shorebird ecology, with extensive experience across Australia and internationally. Our team has authored numerous scientific publications and is frequently sought for expert advice on shorebird conservation and management. By combining field expertise, research credibility, and applied management experience, we deliver outcomes that support compliance and protect biodiversity.
