A review of human disturbance effects on nesting colonial waterbirds

We reviewed 64 published investigations concerning effects of human disturb ance on nesting colonial waterbirds. We summarized and reviewed articles, b ased on taxonomy, examining investigator, ecotourist, recreator, watercraft , and aircraft activity. effects on physiology, reproductive behavior, repr oductive success, and population trends of waterbirds. Though most studies found significant negative effects, taking careful measures minimized impac t on some species. Guidelines for minimizing investigator and visitor distu rbance are outlined. Little practical information for visitor management is available. Increasing pressure from the ecotourism industry to visit water bird colonies makes research that develops scientifically-defensible touris m policies imperative.