Sanderlings chase waves up and down sandy beaches in tight flocks, probing for sand hoppers and invertebrates. Their welfare at UK beaches depends on access to undisturbed sandy shores for refuelling during migration.
Sanderling welfare at UK beaches is primarily affected by recreational disturbance. Flushing sanderling flocks repeatedly during peak recreation periods forces birds to expend energy they need for survival and migration. Dogs running on beaches scatter feeding flocks — individual birds that are repeatedly disturbed reduce feeding time and may fail to achieve the fat reserves needed for migration. Beach cleaning machinery operating at low tide removes the organic material that supports the sand hopper communities sanderlings feed on. Beaches managed with restricted access during key migration periods and with limited dog exercise areas maintain sanderling feeding opportunity and welfare.