Quick Answer
Mountain plovers are considered a species of concern by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a threatened species in parts of their range. While not currently listed as endangered, mountain plover populations have declined significantly over the past few decades due to habitat loss and other threats. Conservation efforts are underway to protect remaining populations and habitat.
Overview of Mountain Plovers
The mountain plover is a small shorebird found in the grasslands and shrub-steppe regions of the western United States and Canada. They are light brown above with white underparts, have long wings, and a black patch on the breast. Mountain plovers nest on the ground, typically in areas with short vegetation and bare ground.
Some key facts about mountain plovers:
- Scientific Name: Charadrius montanus
- Range: Breeds in the western Great Plains and Great Basin; winters in California, Arizona, Mexico
- Habitat: Shortgrass prairies, plains, semi-arid shrublands
- Diet: Insects, spiders, seeds
- Size: 7.5-9.5 inches long; wingspan 16.5-20 inches
- Lifespan: Estimated up to 5 years in wild
Mountain plovers form loose nesting colonies and exhibit biparental care of their young. They forage for insects and other small invertebrates by running along the ground.
Population Status and Trends
Historically, mountain plovers were common nesting birds in the prairies from Montana to Texas. However, the breeding population underwent a steep decline in the late 20th century. Current population estimates show:
- Global population: 10,000-14,000 individuals
- Breeding pairs: 5,000-6,500 (2004 estimate)
This represents a 63% reduction from historic levels. The largest populations remain in Montana, Colorado, and Wyoming. Wintering plovers congregate primarily in California.
While mountain plovers are still a widely distributed species, the combination of population decline, small total numbers, and ongoing threats have increased their vulnerability. As a result, the mountain plover is considered a “Species of Concern” by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and a “Sensitive Species” by the Bureau of Land Management. Some states give the plover additional designations, such as Threatened status in Montana.
Population Decline Causes
The steep decrease in mountain plover numbers stems primarily from habitat loss and degradation. Specific factors behind their declining populations include:
- Conversion of prairie to cropland
- Fragmentation from roads, pipelines, and other infrastructure
- Reduced habitat suitability from overgrazing by livestock
- Increased predation pressure near human development
- Disturbance from recreational activities
Habitat continues to be lost as native grasslands are plowed or otherwise developed. Mountain plovers require large open spaces and are sensitive to disturbance during nesting. Their natural habitats have become increasingly fragmented.
Conservation Efforts
Multiple conservation groups and agencies are working to protect mountain plovers and their prairie ecosystems. Some key conservation actions include:
- Monitoring populations and nesting sites
- Managing livestock grazing to improve habitat
- Establishing protected reserves on public lands
- Working with landowners to voluntarily protect habitat
- Restoring native prairie vegetation
- Altering mowing and farming practices to avoid nests
- Predator management to reduce egg loss
- Raising awareness about plover conservation
Partners in mountain plover conservation include government agencies like the Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, state wildlife agencies, and non-profits like Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory, Audubon, and Nature Conservancy.
Recovery plans aim to downlist the species status by increasing populations and breeding pairs. Ongoing conservation efforts are critical, as the mountain plover remains vulnerable to extinction without sufficient habitat and reductions in threats. Continued habitat protection and restoration will be key.
Conclusion
The mountain plover population has declined significantly over the past century due to conversion of prairie to cropland, habitat fragmentation, and insufficient protection. While not officially endangered, the mountain plover is considered a threatened species in many states and a species of national conservation concern. Maintaining the remaining prairie habitat and breeding grounds through both public and private conservation efforts gives the best chance of recovering mountain plover populations. Without active management and habitat protections, the outlook for mountain plovers would be dire. Ongoing conservation initiatives aimed at restoring prairie ecosystems will help determine whether mountain plovers can persist and recover as a sustainable species.
