As part of a review of the Special Protection Area (SPA) citation, the numbers and distribution of wintering golden plover Pluvialis apricaria were surveyed in and around the Thanet Coast and Sandwich Bay SPA in east Kent throughout the winter 2002/2003. The numbers of golden plover recorded were well in excess of the criteria required to qualify under article 41 of the EU Birds Directive 1979 for SPA inclusion.
The survey confirmed the trend to increased use of Pegwell Bay as a major roost site, to increased use of arable fields for feeding and roosting, and indicated high bird diversity including the lapwing Vanellus vanellus. A review of published literature was undertaken and recommendations made.