Wildlife

Wild Whimbrel Migration Welfare

Whimbrel are long-distance migratory waders whose welfare is affected by hunting in some countries along their flyway and by habitat loss at breeding and wintering sites.

Key Facts

Whimbrel breed on northern moorland and winter in West Africa, migrating through the UK in spring and autumn
Illegal hunting on the Portuguese island of Madeira historically caused significant mortality
Lobbying by BirdLife International led to suspension of whimbrel hunting in Madeira
Coastal staging habitats including estuaries are critical refuelling stops during migration
UK breeding populations are restricted to moorland habitats in Scotland and Northern Isles

Welfare Considerations

Whimbrel welfare requires protection across their entire migratory range. International advocacy against hunting combined with UK habitat protection addresses threats at different life stages.

What You Can Do

Support BirdLife International working on international flyway protection for migratory waders
Record whimbrel sightings at estuaries in spring and autumn for BTO surveys
Advocate for coastal estuary protection as essential migratory bird habitat