These wetland birds are known for their steadfast defence of their eggs and chicks. They may attack or just be incredibly noisy, which can be used to draw predators away from the nest.

According to Audubon’s Survival by Degrees study, the Lesser Yellowlegs is estimated to lose 68% of its current summer range in the not-too-distant future as average global temperatures rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Climate experts believe we will reach 1.5°C as soon as the early 2030s. If we allow global heating to progress at this rate, the Lesser Yellowlegs could lose 83% of its current summer range as soon as 2050 (2°C), and 96% as soon as 2080 (3°C). Projections suggest this species could gain 21%-23% in new areas, but displaced birds may face new challenges and have varying degrees of success in nesting and rearing young.

Want to help? Visit the United Nations website for a list of actions that you can take!

Photograph courtesy of Nick Saunders

This project is supported by SK Arts