1. The extent of shingle is can be monitored through aerial photography. The extent
(ha) should be
measured once (minimum) during the reporting cycle.
- Target: There should be no decrease
in the extent of shingle from the 1999 aerial
survey, subject to natural change.
2. Quality of shingle. Coarse grade shingle is selected for nesting sites by little
tern and ringed
plover. As the sand content increases, the likelihood of colonisation by vegetation increases and
suitability of nesting habitat is reduced. In addition blown sand can cause losses of shorebird
clutches. Particle size analysis data is collated by the Environment Agency at low, mid and upper
shore levels.
Measurements should continue to be carried out at least once during the reporting
cycle.
Optimum shingle grade for nesting little tern will be qualified.
- Target: There should be a representative
cross- section of shingle quality from low
spring tides to landward, subject to natural change.
3. Height of unvegetated shingle ridges is important for shorebird populations and
perpetuating
geomorphological succession. Ridges submerged on 6.8 m tide or less are unlikely to be
productive for shorebirds. Similarly, they will not constitute important roost sites for waders.
- Lower LAC: maintain current extent
of ridges above 6.8 metre tides.
4. Vegetation cover. Whilst ringed plover will occasionally nest amongst sand couch
on embryo
dunes, little terns seek open shingle expanses. Sparse vegetation cover may be tolerated eg sea
sandwort which does not tend to restrict all round visibility. Sand couch may constitute a negative
factor in this respect, particularly as it is associated with the accretion of embryo dunes. Mapping
of key colony areas will be undertaken annually as part of shorebird reporting procedure.
- Upper LAC: 10% vegetation cover on
the key shingle ridges.
