Arctic shorebirds show lower return rates than those in other habitats

Habitat type drives site fidelity

Researchers found that birds nesting in the Arctic tundra return far less often than those breeding in forested areas, grasslands, and arid regions. The pattern becomes even stronger when looking at populations located farther north within the tundra zone. In contrast, shorebirds in other environments show much higher rates of returning to the same location year after year.

Specific species avoid old sites

Certain ground-nesting birds like pectoral sandpipers and long-billed dowitchers seldom revisit the exact area where they laid eggs previously. Even among species known for returning, such as oystercatchers, individual members sometimes choose to settle in a completely new location instead. This behavior challenges the common assumption that all migratory shorebirds rely on home advantage for feeding or roosting.

Study uses decades of data

The team led by Bart Kempenaers drew upon published field records spanning many years to reach these conclusions. Their work covers shorebird populations found across the Northern Hemisphere rather than focusing on a single region. These findings help scientists understand how geography influences breeding decisions for long-distance migrants.