Accidental destruction of nests from human recreation activities on beaches. Breeding involves areas of northern California, Oregon, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and region surrounding the Great Salt Lake in Utah. Winters along Pacific and Gulf coasts of Mexico, Louisiana, Texas and Floriada. Year-round distribution along Pacific and Gulf coast of Texas and northern Mexico. Breeding habitat is barren and scattered vegetated sand beaches.
Winter range primarily coastal using beaches, tidal flats and salt-evaporation ponds.