Dunlin are the most numerous wader on UK estuaries in winter, with their welfare dependent on the productivity and disturbance-free status of intertidal habitats.
Dunlin welfare on estuaries is compromised by disturbance — large flocks flushed repeatedly by dogs, kite surfers and walkers expend energy they cannot easily replace during short winter days. Habitat loss through coastal development reduces feeding area. On upland breeding grounds, drying of blanket bogs and reduction of wet patches reduces invertebrate prey availability. Both habitat and disturbance management are key welfare interventions.