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	Upland Sandpipers in New Hampshire

Upland Sandpiper

by Diane DeLuca, ASNH Senior Biologist

Surveys during the 1998 breeding season continue to document significant upland sandpiper use of the Pease International Tradeport airfield. Observations during late April through May documented courtship and breeding activity. Twelve to fourteen pairs of upland sandpipers were estimated to nest at Pease this year, a slight decrease from the highest ever 1997 estimate of twelve-sixteen pairs. Despite a very wet spring, hatch began around June 9, which is consistent with dates documented in previous years. The tough weather may have had a significant impact on productivity this season, as few chicks were observed, and migration was early and light. The 1998 nest data again underscores the importance of mowing regimes to the breeding success of the upland sandpiper at the Pease airfield. The delay of mowing until August 1 is significant to sandpiper productivity, as it allows eggs to hatch and enables chicks to move away from the danger of the mower. The increase in the number of pairs nesting on the Pease Airfield is likely due to the later mowing date and the continued coordination with the airfield operations staff, mower operators, and construction personnel.