Migration route, stopping sites, and non-breeding destinations of adult Black-tailed Godwits breeding in southwest Fryslân, The Netherlands

• DOI: 10.1007/s10336-020-01807-3
• Publication Date: 2020-08-17T20:03:53Z
• Authors: Mo A. Verhoeven; A. H. Jelle Loonstra; Alice D. McBride; Christiaan Both; Nathan R. Senner; Theunis Piersma
• Keywords: Philopatry; Annual cycle; Flyway

Abstract In this paper, we extend our understanding of the migration Black-tailed Godwits ( Limosa limosa ) by describing: (1) orientation and geographic locations individual migratory routes (2) spatial distribution godwits across seasons years. We accomplish using satellite-tracking data from 36 adult breeding in 200-ha Haanmeer polder The Netherlands, 2015 to 2018. During both southward northward migration, used a narrow corridor along which most individuals made stops within network sites, especially Bay Biscay, France Doñana, Spain. Most sites were consistently same However, Morocco during 75% individuals, but not revisited After small proportion (15%) spent entire non-breeding period north Sahara, (85%) crossed Sahara at least part season among seven coastal West Africa one site Inner Niger Delta. Although site-use patterns varied showed high fidelity consistent number they year year. considerable differences that breed kilometre another raise questions about causes consequences differences. discuss full annual cycle tracking juveniles birth adulthood is needed understand source these Our results on throughout their lay an important foundation information can be help conserve declining species.