In Guadeloupe, three species of shorebirds have received full legal protection under a new ministerial decree issued at the end of July 2026. This decision marks a significant step in the region's efforts to conserve its natural biodiversity and protect vulnerable wildlife. The decree was introduced to address growing concerns about the decline in shorebird populations due to habitat loss, human activity, and environmental changes. The three protected shorebird species include the red knots, semipalmated sandpipers, and lesser yellowlegs. These birds are known for their migratory patterns, often traveling long distances between breeding and wintering grounds. Their presence in Guadeloupe is not only ecologically important but also contributes to the region's ecological balance and biodiversity. The new protections prohibit activities that could harm these birds or their habitats, including hunting, disturbing nesting sites, and damaging wetlands where they typically reside. Conservationists and environmental groups have welcomed the move, noting that it aligns with international efforts to preserve migratory bird species. The decree is part of a broader strategy to enhance environmental conservation in the French overseas territory. The decision follows years of research and collaboration between local authorities, scientists, and environmental organizations. It reflects a growing awareness of the need to protect wildlife in the face of increasing environmental pressures. The hope is that these protections will help stabilize and eventually increase the populations of these shorebirds in Guadeloupe and along their migratory routes.