Dunlins

A Global Look at Shorebirds

We recognize that protecting ecosystems and biodiversity is deeply linked to thriving communities, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods. In that spirit, we had the privilege of partnering with The David and Lucile Packard Foundation to explore how shorebird conservation is intertwined with community well-being.

Shorebird populations are declining worldwide. Many species are facing risk due to habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbance across their migratory routes. Coastal and Indigenous communities are facing many of the same threats as shorebirds: the loss of traditional livelihoods and food sources, rising sea levels, and the erosion of their home environments. But there are tangible solutions within reach that benefit people and nature.

Our Process - Globally and Looking at the Pacific Flyway

In 2024, we conducted a strategic assessment of global shorebird conservation. The goal was to understand strategic opportunities to protect shorebirds and communities. We spoke one-on-one with more than 11 experts, surveyed 47 more, and analyzed over 100 research articles and conservation plans. Complementing this engagement and research, we developed a decision-making tool that brings together mapping data, threats, species importance, and implementation capacity across 500 geographies of state and countries.

In 2025, we went deeper by looking at the Pacific Flyway to connect opportunities to on-the-ground realities. Working with seven leading organizations across the Americas, we synthesized their inputs into a strategic summary, a landscape overview, and profiles of each group.

Synopsis of the Four Reports

This suite of documents is designed to serve as a resource for funders and organizations seeking clarity on who’s doing what and how to invest in durable, high-impact conservation. Please see below for a summary of and links to the four reports in English and Spanish (some of which are forthcoming).

1. Global Shorebird Assessment (link) outlines eight priority strategies from habitat protection and threat reduction to creative communications and community-led conservation. We analyzed priorities with a decision-making tool to help guide smart, scalable investments. Versión en español | Spanish version.

   
   

2. Shorebird Pacific Flyway Strategy Summary (link) builds off the global assessment to offer a focused and actionable lens across the Pacific Americas. It includes threats, vision, priority shorebird species and regions, stakeholder engagement, six strategies, and details for main geographies. The report concludes with key conservation connections that link shorebirds to climate, Indigenous rights, working lands, and jobs & economies, among other topics. For funders looking to understand where their support fits into the bigger picture, this is the place to start. Versión en español | Spanish version forthcoming.

   
   

3. Landscape Overview (link) answers the question: Who’s doing what, and where? This report maps out the leading organizations working across the Pacific Flyway – from international conveners to place-based champions. It describes their overall geographic reach, stakeholder engagement, and strategic approaches. This document offers a snapshot of the coalition’s collective strength and the diversity of expertise. For a birds-eye view of shorebird conservation in the Pacific Americas, this is the place to find more details. Versión en español | Spanish version forthcoming.

   
   

4. Seven Organization Profiles (link) dive into the work of seven key organizations: Flyway-wide work of Audubon, Manomet, and Point Blue, and country-specific work of Pronatura Noroeste (Mexico), CECPAN (Chile), Panama Audubon, and CIAM (Panama). These profiles include each group’s scope, niche, partnerships, and successes. For funders looking to meet strong organizations doing impactful work, this is the place to take a close look. Versión en español | Spanish version forthcoming.

We believe that shorebird conservation offers something rare: an opportunity to protect biodiversity, strengthen communities, and restore coastal ecosystems. These organizations bring deep expertise, trusted partnerships, and proven strategies.

We encourage funders and organizations to explore the reports and use them as a jumping-off point for aligning their interests. We invite you to reach out to learn more.