Wildlife

Wild Redshank Estuary Welfare

Redshanks are declining waders dependent on estuarine mudflats and saltmarsh, with welfare shaped by prey availability and disturbance.

Key Facts

UK redshank populations declined by 20% since the 1970s
Saltmarsh provides nesting habitat while mudflats provide invertebrate feeding grounds
Invertebrate prey including ragworms and small crustaceans are accessed at low tide
Disturbance from dog-walking and coastal recreation affects feeding efficiency
Climate change and sea level rise threaten both nesting habitat and prey communities

Welfare Considerations

Redshanks repeatedly flushed from feeding mudflats by disturbance waste energy at a time when energy budgets are tight. Nesting redshanks disturbed in saltmarsh abandon nests exposing eggs and chicks to predation. Managed coastal access and protection of key estuarine habitats protects both breeding and winter welfare for this declining species.

What You Can Do

Keep dogs under control near estuarine habitats
Support estuarine habitat protection and management
Donate to wading bird conservation organisations