Shelducks are among the UK most distinctive ducks, nesting in rabbit burrows and other cavities near estuaries, and their welfare is tied to the health of mudflat and estuary ecosystems.
Shelduck welfare depends on the health of estuarine mudflat ecosystems that support their primary prey. Reclamation of estuaries for development or flood defence removes feeding habitat. Disturbance of moulting flocks when birds are temporarily flightless causes energy-intensive flight responses. Protected estuarine sites allow undisturbed moulting.