Spoon Billed Sandpiper
Updated: Nov 10, 2020
A Spoon-billed Sandpiper, presumably nonbreeding due to its lighter mostly white coloration. Find the original here. © BSCP
Status: //CRITICALLY ENDANGERED//
Population Estimate: Less than 450 Individuals ↓DECREASING↓
Brief Description
The spoon-billed Sandpiper, or Calidris pygmaea, is a small migratory bird found across a broad range of Asia, from Japan and the Jiangsu Coast of China to the Russian Far East. Although only in recent years conservation efforts been taken, the global population has been likely decreasing since the 1970s.
Rapidly developing countries like China have fueled the major reason for the steep decline of the species. Loss of intertidal habitats, or spots where the birds can rest along their migration routes is generally considered the major reason for their endangered status. Additionally, seasonal hunting in various regions has contributed to their diminishing numbers.
Subsistence hunting is a growing industry in the Gulf of Martaban in Myanmar. Recent efforts by Bird Life International have been undetaken to educate the local community about the rarity of the bird to save the species.
Written by — Joe Sweeney
Fun Facts
Current conservation efforts have set a goal of 50% population increase by 2025!
An estimated half of the global population of Spoon-billed Sandpipers live in Myanmar’s Gulf of Martaban.
They are considered one of the most endangered bird species on the entire planet.
The spatular shape of it’s beak is actually rather uncommon in shorebirds.
How you can help
By donating to this project specifically focusing on the conservation of the Spoon-Billed Sandpiper, your money will go towards a variety of equipment. A mere £15 can buy the vet supplies to save a chick from infection while only £25 can fund a school visit to appreciate the bird and it’s wetland habitat. If you are interested in donating, click the link below!
Saving the Spoon Billed Sandpiper Project
Read More
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Spoon-billed Sandpipers || Saving the Spoon-Billed Sandpiper