The WHSRN Executive Office joins the BirdCaribbean community in mourning the loss of Wayne Burke, who passed away on November 19th in Barbados. Fondly known as “Doc,” Wayne was a trailblazer in shorebird conservation whose work has left an enduring impact on the island and beyond.
Wayne began his conservation journey in 2008 with BirdLife International, working to address the unsustainable hunting of shorebirds. His efforts led to the creation of the Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge, a sanctuary of immense ecological value, welcoming southbound migrants and a year-round haven for shorebirds and waterbirds.
Pictured with the Pablo Canevari award plaque are Wayne Burke (right) and Ian “Bolt” Alkins (Left), the “next generation” of shorebird conservationists at the Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge, Barbados.
Wayne’s legacy extends beyond Woodbourne. Through his collaboration with the Barbados Wildfowlers Association, he fostered significant cultural changes in hunting practices, including self-imposed bag limits and the establishment of no-shooting swamps such as Congo Road and Fosters.
In 2017, Wayne’s extraordinary contributions earned him the Pablo Canevari Award, recognizing his commitment to shorebird conservation across the Americas.
His work inspired countless conservationists and reshaped Barbados’ role as a critical site for migratory birds. Wayne’s passion, humor, and unyielding dedication will forever remain an inspiration to all who knew him.
Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues. While we grieve his loss, we honor his extraordinary work, inspiring conservation efforts throughout the region.
Left: Visiting Woodbourne in 2022 during our Wetlands Education Workshop in Barbados (L to R: Lisa Sorenson, Wayne “Doc” Burke, Alex Sansom, Ian “Bolt” Alkins). Photo: Michele Kading.
Right: Wayne ‘Doc’ Burke at Woodbourne Shorebird Refuge. Photo: Danielle van Dreunenand Tjalle Boorsma.
Cover Photo: Courtesy of Birds of Barbados.
