The avocet is the symbol of the RSPB and a conservation success story, but coastal wetland habitat management remains critical for welfare of breeding and wintering populations.
Coastal lagoon salinities must be managed carefully for invertebrate prey production. Predation management including control of foxes and crows is essential at major colony sites. Rising sea levels and storm surges threaten low-lying nesting habitat. Disturbance by walkers and dogs during breeding season causes nest abandonment.