The aim of the group is to provide a better understanding of the waders using the Wash so that decisions can be taken in the light of factual information.
Work concentrates on eleven target species (Oystercatcher, Ringed Plover, Grey Plover, Knot, Sanderling, Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit, Bar-tailed Godwit, Curlew, Redshank and Turnstone), with particular importance being given to the study of:
- the pattern of migration and origins of each species
- the importance to waders of the Wash as a whole
- the importance to waders of sub-areas of the Wash
- changes in the populations of waders using the Wash
Subsequent analyses of the data collected are published in the biennial report or, as papers, in scientific journals.