The Group aims to monitor waders using the Wash to provide a better understanding of their biology. This will allow decisions which may affect these waders to be taken in the light of factual information.
Work concentrates on eleven target species (Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Knot, Sanderling, Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank and Turnstone), with particular importance being given to the study of:
- the pattern of migration and origins of each species and any known populations;
- the importance of the Wash as a whole;
- the importance of sub-areas of the Wash;
- the use of biometrics and other techniques to understand how birds use the Wash;
- long-term population dynamics.
Subsequent analyses of the data collected are published in the biennial report or as papers in scientific journals.
Further details of the projects WWRG is undertaking or involved with can be viewed on our Colour-marking projects and Tracking studies pages.