Birds Caribbean is sounding the alarm over the significant declines in shorebird populations, highlighted in a recent update to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. The report, released during the COP16 UN Biodiversity Conference in November, reveals that 16 shorebird species have been moved to higher threat categories, with some populations plummeting by at least 30% over the past three generations.
“This is a wake-up call,” said Lisa Sorenson, Executive Director of Birds Caribbean. “The Caribbean is a lifeline for migratory shorebirds, providing critical stopover and wintering sites along the Atlantic Flyway. When these habitats are lost or degraded, or disappear, these birds face severe challenges.”
Many of the reclassified species are familiar visitors to the Caribbean, reflecting the region’s vital role in their life cycles. Among the newly listed species are the Lesser Yellowlegs, now classified as “Vulnerable,” and the Greater Yellowlegs, listed as “Near Threatened.” Other widespread species like the Ruddy Turnstone are also in decline, facing threats such as habitat loss, disturbance, and climate change-related impacts. The Short-billed Dowitcher has also experienced worrying population declines. continue reading