From the icy shores of Alaska to the windswept plains of Tierra del Fuego, we’re celebrating every WHSRN site and the incredible places that shorebirds call home.
Through this shared event, we aim to strengthen direct connections with site partners, encourage active participation in regional initiatives, and inspire new local activities in monitoring, education, and celebration, building on the knowledge and leadership already present at each site.
It’s also a chance to listen, learn, and better understand the capacities, interests, and conditions at the local level, helping shape future strategies for support across the network.
In 2024, WHSRN partners across the Americas rallied to celebrate Shorebird Day at WHSRN Sites. The event is a collective initiative to honor shorebirds, showcase local conservation efforts, and strengthen the ties that unite this hemispheric network. We’ve received reports from 13 participating countries just days after the event. A total of 44,888 shorebirds, representing 39 different species, were counted!
With an impressive 18,714 individuals, Wilson’s Phalarope claimed the crown as the most abundant species recorded! To check the top ten Species Abundance Rankings click here.
Stay tuned for upcoming updates on how to participate in Big Day at WHSRN Sites!
The Team from “Cuidando al Playero Rojizo y al Pejerrey” at Alto Golfo de California y Delta del Río Colorado WHSRN Ste
Shorebird Day at WHSRN Sites 2025: A Week to Celebrate, Connect, and Inspire
This year, we’re going bigger—with a full week of activities to engage new audiences, reconnect with longtime allies, and highlight local conservation work across the hemisphere.
From public events to simple nature walks, every action helps shine a light on the sites and people behind shorebird conservation. Participation is flexible, and creativity is encouraged. WHSRN’s Executive Office will provide resources and support to help amplify your efforts.
Why it matters: Big Day is more than a celebration—it’s a chance to strengthen connections, raise awareness, and share the stories that make this network powerful.
This year also kicks off the countdown to WHSRN’s 40th anniversary in 2026. Let’s use this moment to build momentum together.
Join us in whatever way works best for your site.
Frequent Asked Questions
What is Shorebird Day at WHSRN Sites?
An event promoted by the Western Hemisphere Shorebird Reserve Network, which consists of counting all shorebirds and their individuals at WHSRN sites.
When will it take place?
It will occur in the first week of September as part of World Shorebird Day. September 7.
How can you participate?
Organize and register a team with colleagues and friends. Fill out the form where you choose a name for your team, preferably with the name of the WHSRN site.
Who can participate?
All WHSRN site partners, friends of partners, birders in general.
Where to share bird lists?
We invite you to share your bird lists with the WHSRN user WHSRN_RHRAP. Putting together the lists from each WHSRN site will give us a snapshot of where and how many shorebirds we can see in a single great day.
How many lists per site can I upload?
You can include as many as you can, but we recommend separating the lists by site according to use, resting sites, and feeding sites.
