GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Snowy Plover (Charadrius alexandrinus)

Species Code: CHAL

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Breeding Range Map
The green area shows the predicted habitats for breeding only. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, Breeding Bird Atlas (BBA), other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project. Habitats used during non-breeding months and migratory rest-stops were not mapped.

Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Click to enlarge distribution map

Other maps & Information:

Breeding Bird Atlas
NatureMapping observations
during breeding season
NatureMapping observations
throughout the year

This species is very local and uncommon on the outer sandy beaches of Leadbetter Point and Damon Point. Currently, there are no other nesting sites.

Good habitat in the core areas of use for this species included sandy beach habitats in the Sitka Spruce zone, but only in Leadbetter and Damon Points.

The Snowy/Kentish Plover has a global distribution in tropical and temperate zones. They are very restricted in their habitat preference, and are easily disturbed by humans (and their associated cars, dogs, etc.). The Damon Point birds are the northernmost breeders for this species both on the Pacific Ocean and for North America. Inland populations breed in southeastern Oregon, and a few breeding-season records of single birds exist from eastern Washington, which suggests that eastern Washington may be a site for future colonization by this species. Former known nesting areas in Washington include Copalis Spit in Grays Harbor County and near Cape Shoalwater in Pacific County.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Bird Volume by Uchenna Bright
Text edited by Gussie Litwer
Webpage designed by Dave Lester