Human–wildlife interactions on the tidal flats of the Bijagós Archipelago: does shellfishing affect migratory shorebirds?

A study on the Bijagós Archipelago reveals that shellfishing, while significant for local culture and economy, does not substantially affect migratory shorebirds. Despite high densities of shellfishers during mid-winter, disturbances decrease as shorebirds prepare for migration, benefiting them with reduced competition and minimal sediment impact on prey availability. Formal protection measures enhance bivalve resource management compared to traditional practices rooted in cultural beliefs. The research combined questionnaires, seasonal assessments, and experimental approaches to explore direct and indirect impacts of shellfishing on shorebird feeding dynamics.

Coelho, A. P., Ramos, C., Regala de Barros, A., Piersma, T., & Alves, J. A. (2024). Human–wildlife interactions on the tidal flats of the Bijagós Archipelago: does shellfishing affect migratory shorebirds? Wildlife Biology, 2025(1). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/wlb3.01134