The American Oystercatcher Working Group (AMOYWG) has updated a standardized protocol for monitoring the breeding productivity of American Oystercatchers to identify and compare changes in productivity over time and across multiple spatial scales. Survey methods and metrics are defined to promote consistency and accuracy in the collection, reporting, and analysis of productivity data. Basic guidance for carrying out this work in the field is provided; however this protocol does not replace more thorough (and site-specific) training which is the responsibility of each site’s leadership. Accompanying the written protocol is an Excel template intended to guide the creation of digital collection forms (e.g., Survey123, Field Maps, NestStory, etc.) and each participant’s end-of-season output will be an Excel file in the same format.
You can find the new protocol, associated resources, and contact information should you need help on the American Oystercatcher Working Group website.