Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) serves several vital functions in shorebird conservation; it provides breeding habitat, important stop-over areas for migrating birds, and wintering habitat for a variety of species. Shorebirds are key components of coastal ecosystems and a primary reason for visitation by many visitors. Several species of special conservation concern use CAHA for some part of the year, including piping plover (Charadrius melodus), red knot (Calidris canutus), American oystercatcher (Haematopus palliates), and Wilson's plover (Charadrius wilsonia). These four species were the focus of 2006/2007 shorebird-monitoring efforts and henceforth collectively referred to as "focal shorebirds.".