Godwit Communication

In this study, we investigate how our black-tailed godwits (Limosa limosa limosa) protect their nests and young from predators. Black-tailed godwits, which usually breed solitarily, can form alliances with unrelated neighbors during the breeding season to ward off threats using acoustic communication and shared defense strategies. Using advanced tracking and sound recording technology, we investigate differences in cooperative behavior, both among partners and with group members, between sparsely and densely populated breeding areas. It is likely that this research will yield concrete ideas for the management and conservation of this culturally important Dutch bird, including by developing improved and new instruments for monitoring predation pressure.