Workshop: Waterbird Monitoring Techniques - Training and Problem-Solving to Address Population Information Needs for Priority Species

Organized by:		Waterbird Conservation for the Americas
Contacts:		Jennifer Wheeler, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Ghisselle Alvarado, Museo Nacional de Costa Rica
Date & Time:		Monday & Tuesday, 2 & 3 October 2006, 9:00 - 17:00
Location:		Hotel Galería Plaza Salón E

Objectives: The target audience is waterbird scientists and conservationists from Mexico and all the countries of Central America. However, this workshop is open to anybody with an interest in developing or participating in aquatic bird monitoring.

The objective is provide a forum to share and improve methods used by people involved in the difficult task of monitoring waterbird populations, specifically seabirds, colonial wading birds, and secretive marshbirds. This would be a practical workshop reviewing methods and approaches, focused on information needs for waterbirds ranging across Mexico and Central America, and drawing on the expertise of scientists who are internationally recognized as leaders in developing waterbird monitoring techniques.

Outcomes will be to share opportunities and document project ideas, generate solutions to technical challenges, and develop lists of personal contacts for continued collaboration.

Proposed Agenda:

October 2:

Introduction
General review of information about aquatic bird populations and status in Central America and Mexico, emphasizing information needs, and presentation of goals of the workshop. Participants will be asked to describe their monitoring experiences relative to these needs and goals.
Sessions
In each session, species experts will describe the approaches and issues involved in developing a monitoring program for the given group of birds. Then, participants with relevant experiences or interest in undertaking monitoring in Central America or Mexico will have an opportunity to provide input or ask questions. The session will allow time for extensive discussion and exploration of solutions to major challenges.
- Session on Ground-nesting waterbirds (Pelecanidae, Sulidae, Laridae, Rynchopidae...)
- Session on Tree- or shrub-nesting colonial waterbirds (Pelecaniformes and Ciconiformes)

October 3:

Sessions Continued
- Session on Rallidae and other secretive marsh birds
- Session on Pelagic Species (Procellariiformes) and other birds at sea
- Session on Data Management and Access

For more information: Contact the organizers, and after May 1, visit http://www.waterbirdconservation.org (select “Monitoring”)

Workshop: Waterbird Monitoring Techniques - Training and Problem-Solving to Address Population Information Needs for Priority Species

The Conference

The Program

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