Important Geographies for Migrating and Wintering Waterfowl

This chapter identifies and describes the most important geographic regions for migrating and wintering waterfowl across North America. Although breeding habitats have historically been the focus of waterfowl conservation, this chapter emphasizes that the non-breeding period plays a critical role in shaping population dynamics. The authors use expert judgment, survey data, and conservation planning frameworks to designate regions that support large numbers of waterfowl or provide essential habitat functions. Organized primarily by flyway, these regions are described in terms of their physiography, climate, habitat resources, species assemblages, and conservation concerns. Particular attention is given to habitat loss, hydrological alteration, development pressure, and climate change, all of which pose ongoing threats to waterfowl populations. While limitations in data are acknowledged, this chapter represents one of the most comprehensive reviews of non-breeding waterfowl geographies to date and underscores the need for coordinated, annual cycle conservation strategies to sustain healthy waterfowl populations across the continent.