The data presented here is based upon a cummulative analysis of my personal observations from 1988 to the present. As with anything statistical, this document reflects the probability of occurences rather than absolute guarantees. Please keep this in mind on those days when you're standing out at the South Jetty expecting great things and only managing a sunburn. As with anything in life, timing is everything. The hotline may speak of several thousand shorebirds and by the time the weekend rolls around, providing time for viewing, they've apparently vanished.
Shorebirds adjust their behavior to time of year, weather and the changing tides.
There are peaks and valleys to the movements. Adults generally arrive before juveniles and there is a lull between the generational waves. Figure 1 shows the general timing of these movements. For those observers interested in being impressed by sheer numbers, the 2nd week of August is the best time to be at the South Jetty. The South Jetty is, however, a vacation spot for non-birders and their dogs and their children.