Oystercatchers: Haematopodidae

Of the seven species of oystercatchers in existence, one is considered Endangered, facing a very high risk of extinction, and one is considered Near Threatened, in danger of becoming threatened. Chatham Island oystercatchers are Endangered. There are only 100 to 150 individuals left in their natural habitat on four small islands in New Zealand. Chatham Island oystercatcher populations did increase in number during the 1990s as a result of predator removal from critical habitat areas and artificial incubation of eggs. African black oystercatchers are considered Near Threatened. Populations number about 4,800 total. African black oystercatchers have been affected primarily by human disturbance, particularly off-road vehicles and other coastal human recreation.