SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF MIGRATORY SHOREBIRDS CARNIVOROUS DIET IN THEIR
NON-BREEDING PERIOD IN THE AMERICAS
Abstract
Studying the trophic ecology of animals is crucial for comprehending
their life history. Migratory shorebirds, characterized as opportunistic
species, traverse diverse distances in pursuit of food. A comprehensive
systematic review was conducted by the researchers using Scopus, Web of
Science, SciELO, and Google Academic databases to scrutinize the diets
of 41 migratory shorebirds in the Americas. The analysis encompassed 94
documents, including 85 papers and 8 theses published from 1919 to July
2023. Over 90% of the results originate from studies concentrating on
feces and intestinal tract analysis, with only two documents employing
molecular analysis and DNA. Long-distance migratory species,
particularly those in the Atlantic flyway, underwent frequent scrutiny,
with substantial contributions from research conducted in Argentina,
Brazil, and the USA. Among these species, Limnodromus griseus and Tringa
flavipes were noteworthy for having the highest reported prey items. At
the order level Diptera, Coleoptera, Littorinimorpha, Decapoda, and
Hymenoptera were the most common prey items in the shorebird diet, with
diverse representatives identified across the five regions analyzed.
Stopover sites utilized by these birds offer diverse food resources
influenced by intrinsic environmental conditions. Although coastal areas
exhibited similarities in prey items such as Mollusca, Annelida, and
Decapoda, dissimilarities were observed between shorebird diets. This
variation is attributed to migratory shorebirds’ remarkable ability to
explore various prey items during their migration. Despite advancements,
information gaps persist in crucial conservation areas, particularly in
tropical regions along the midcontinental and Pacific flyway. Migratory
shorebird populations are declining, encountering challenges in stopover
and non-breeding areas. Understanding the variability of their diets is
paramount for making informed decisions in conservation efforts.
Addressing these gaps will contribute to the effective conservation of
migratory shorebirds and their habitats.