Migratory Routes and Key Non-Breeding Sites for Eastern Willets Tringa semipalmata semipalmata from Nova Scotia, Canada

Coastal habitats are under significant threat from human activities, impacting shorebird populations that depend on them. The eastern Willet (Tringa semipalmata semipalmata), a migratory shorebird, breeds in eastern North America and winters in South America. Using satellite transmitters, we tracked Willets breeding at the northern edge of their range in Nova Scotia, Canada to identify critical migratory stopover and non-breeding sites. Migration timing and stopover sites varied among individuals, but all willets made direct transoceanic, post-breeding migration flights to northeastern South America and spent non-breeding in a relatively limited geographic area along Brazil's coast in Maranhão state. Notably, one bird made an initial migration attempt but returned to Nova Scotia, a rarely documented “false start” for migrating shorebirds. Device performance issues and potential harness impacts on bird health were identified, with three out of eight devices ceasing transmission within two months and two others within the first non-breeding phase. These findings highlight the need for improved tracking technology to minimize impacts on bird welfare, especially for sensitive species. This study underscores the importance of safeguarding interconnected habitats across migratory routes, particularly in regions with known habitat loss and hunting pressures, to support shorebird populations. Received 20 Dec 2024, accepted 6 May 2025.