it is estimated that the endemic population consists of 3100 ± 396 total individuals, implying 1800-2300 mature birds. Additionally, nesting success is very low, and life history traits do not enable the species to reproduce quick enough to recover. The main threat is habitat loss or degradation, mainly due to the conversion of many natural plover wetland habitats to rice paddies and shrimp farms. As the population is restricted to specialised wetland habitats, they are especially vulnerable to habitat degradation. Cattle may aid the population by creating space to nest, but present the inevitable risk of trampling of birds and nests. The Madagascar plover's life history traits such as small clutch sizes, long incubation periods, slow chick growth and long re-nesting intervals make it less able to withstand environmental change, and thus very sensitive to habitat threats. Three nesting localities are located in protected national parks: Lake Tsimanampetsotsa, Kirindy Mitea, and Baly Bay. Control of predators has been suggested as a conservation measure, however this may be difficult as the predators themselves may be endemic to Madagascar, endangered, or protected species. References External links BirdLife Species Factsheet. Madagascar plover Endemic birds of Madagascar Madagascar plover Taxa named by Charles Wallace Richmond Taxonomy articles created by Polbot