Whimbrels pass through the UK in spring and autumn on migration, with a small breeding population in Shetland. Their welfare spans from tropical wintering grounds to Arctic-like breeding habitat.
Whimbrel welfare spans the full annual cycle from Shetland moorland to West African wetlands. Breeding birds in Shetland require undisturbed areas of wet moorland with abundant invertebrates - both under threat from overgrazing and drainage. Passage birds refuelling on UK coasts face disturbance from recreation and development. In West Africa, wetland drainage for agriculture is reducing wintering habitat quality. The welfare of this long-distance migrant requires coordinated conservation action across three continents.