Download

The previous distribution of the Shore Plover (Thinornis novaeseelandiae) and the possible reasons for its decline are outlined. The species is now confined to one small population on South East Island (Rangatira) in the Chatham Islands. In January and February 1993, we captured and banded or re-banded about 95% of this population and determined its age structure. Excluding juveniles of the 1992-93 season, 55% of the population is aged 6 years or less, 31% is aged between 7 and 12 years, and 14% is aged 13 years or more. The oldest bird currently alive is 18 years old. Estimates of population size and productivity for the season are compared with previous (mostly unpublished) records. Morphometric data are presented; there are small but significant differences in total head length, bill and tarsus between adult males and females, and in weight, wing and mid-toe between adults and 1-year-olds. In January, primary moult was more advanced in 1-year-olds than in adults.