The USFWS is coordinating an international survey of breeding Snowy Plovers in the U.S. and Mexico in collaboration with USGS.  The goal of this survey is to assess the distribution and abundance of the species breeding in the study area during the spring of 2007.  

Despite the high level of conservation concern associated with this species, there has never been a comprehensive survey for the Snowy Plover at the range-wide scale.  This effort will allow us to accurately prioritize for conservation actions in the most important areas. 

This survey is scheduled to begin during the spring of 2007.  Survey dates vary depending on location with the earliest surveys beginning in April, 2007 along the southern portion of the range and latest dates of June, 2007 in the northern portion of the range.  

How will data from this survey be used?

1. Provide an index to the populatio size for this species.
2. Provide the first comprehensive baseline data for distribution and abundance in Mexico.
3. Assist partners in assessing conservation priorities for the species at national or statewide scales.
4. Inform a focal species action plan to be developed by the USFWS and Partners with the focus on identifying conservation actions at multiple scales.

This data will be available through the NBII Metadata Clearinghouse for site-level conservation actions once the data are analyzed.

The success of this survey and its contribution to Snowy Plover conservation will depend on the support that it receives from partners like you!  If you are interested in participating in this effort or would like more information contact your local coordinator.