Impact of Cold Spring on Breeding and Abundance of Waders in the Arctic

This study delves into the breeding and abundance of waders in the Arctic, focusing on the significant impact of a cold spring in 2024 compared to the warmer years of 2022 and 2023. Key findings reveal that the cold spring led to delayed nesting periods, with species like the little stint, Temminck’s stint, and dunlin starting their incubation up to two weeks later. The study also highlights changes in nesting densities and habitat preferences, with waders opting for habitats that were freed from snow cover earlier, such as moss-lichen tundras and transformed meadows. The total abundance of waders was notably lower in 2024, with species like the red-necked phalarope and ruff showing significant declines. The research underscores the adaptability of waders to adverse weather conditions, demonstrating their ability to adjust nesting locations and densities in response to environmental changes. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the ecological impacts of climate variability on Arctic bird populations, emphasizing the importance of understanding species-specific responses to changing weather patterns.