International Shorebird Surveys

Threats to shorebirds have become more diverse and widespread in recent decades.  There has been a collapse of the Red Knot population and a free-fall in numbers of Semipalmated Sandpipers in the last 20 years.  Also as a result of Hurricane Sandy, forage habitat for shorebirds along the CT coastline has likely shifted and assessment of shorebird activity is needed.  As part of a hemisphere-wide effort to understand the declining trends of migratory shorebirds, International Shorebird Surveys are planned to occur along the coastline of Connecticut.

International Shorebird Surveys take place from April 1st to the end of May, and from August 15th to October 15th. We are looking for volunteers to conduct ISS at specific sites a minimum of 3 times per season.   We are in particular need of volunteers to conduct ISS at Compo Beach in Westport, Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford, and Bluff Point State Park in Groton.  During a survey, participants record which shorebird species are present and the number of birds of each species.  The data is entered into e-bird using the ISS portal.  A training session will be held on Tuesday March 26th at 6:30pm at the CAS Coastal Center at Milford Point and will focus on ISS methods and shorebird identification.  A webinar may be offered for those who cannot make the training.

To volunteer or for more information, please contact Important Bird Area Program Coordinator, Corrie Folsom-O’Keefe, at cfolsom-okeefe@audubon.org or 203-264-5098 ext. 310.  Thank you!


Audubon Alliance for Coastal Waterbirds, Audubon Connecticut and the Connecticut Audubon Society partnering to improve conditions for coastal waterbirds in Connecticut.