Selecting a suite of potential partner sites for the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary to aid shorebird conservation in the East Asian-Australasian Flyway

Abstract

Migratory shorebird species depend on a suite of interconnected sites and protection of these sites as part of a network is an increasingly used conservation approach. Partnering sites based on shared migratory bird species can be a powerful tool for implementing conservation action. To assist the Adelaide International Bird Sanctuary (AIBS), South Australia, in expanding their conservation impact across the East Asian-Australasian Flyway, we generated a list of 81 sites to consider for potential partnerships. We developed the list using existing shorebird count data for seven high priority migratory shorebirds that spend the austral summer at AIBS, such as Bar-tailed Godwit (Limosa lapponica) and Great Knot (Calidris tenuirostris). We computed a scaled abundance across all species to develop a categorical indicator of importance of each potential site for its shared species richness and abundance. Based on assessments of literature, existing conservation plans, and interviews with experts, we also evaluated each potential site's feasibility for ecotourism, conservation management, and existing or potential partnerships. This process resulted in a list of 20 sites for the AIBS to consider for possible partnerships in nine countries that met some combination of values for shared shorebird species, inclusion in one or more current site designation schemes, existing or potential opportunities for tourism, habitat management, or partnerships. Additional sites that either have high or medium abundances of shared shorebird species or that have been designated as important by other criteria (Ramsar, Important Bird and Biodiversity Area) were identified. We recommend this methodology be applied to other sites seeking to form cross-boundary partnerships to help further the conservation of highly mobile species.