Shorebirds represent a diverse set of long-distance migrant birds whose ID can be as challenging as spotting them. Indiana isn’t always thought of as a destination to watch shorebirds, but the many mudflats, “fluddles,” and sandy beaches provide habitat for both breeding and migrating species.
Much of what we know about shorebird migration in Indiana is thanks to the lifelong passion and sharp ID skills of Dr. Kenneth Brock. He wasn’t just a scientist, he was a friend for many, and he had an unmatched curiosity about bird movement. While Ken is perhaps best known for the now named Brock Fall Waterbird Count that focuses on jaegers, his obsession with shorebirds ran just as deep.
Ken wasn’t only interested in when shorebirds arrived. He noticed the nuances, how different age classes of birds passed through at different times, how timing shifted along the Lake Michigan shoreline and then further south into Indiana. They were questions he pursued year after year with the kind of patience and detail that most people wouldn’t even think to track. He’d sit on the beach at Lake Street, or near the concession stand in Marquette Park in his lawn chair, with clipboard in hand. As soon as a bird was called out, he’d immediately yell, “name names!”
Before he passed, Ken completed what became a lasting part of his legacy: Shorebirds of Indiana. The project expanded on Charles Keller’s original 1950s work, which was revolutionary at the time. Ken took that foundation and built something even more comprehensive. His supplement covers nearly 50 shorebird species seen in Indiana, each with detailed data on migration timing, abundance, and statewide distribution.
Shorebirds of Indiana is a powerful resource, made freely available to Indiana Audubon members thanks to Ken’s generosity and commitment. It’s not just a reference document, it’s a tribute to someone who paid close attention and inspired us to continue his work today.
Indiana Audubon members can access the full 50 species accounts by logging in and visiting here.
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